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V
THE
MEXICAN WAR:
HISTORY OF ITS ORIGIN,
AND
\ \
A DETAILED ACCOUNT OF TIIE VICTORIES WHICH TBRMIHATED IN
THE SUBRENDRR OF THE CAPITAL ; WITH THE OFFICIAL
DESPATCHES OF THE OERERALS.
TO WHICH If ADDED,
THE TREATY OF PEACE,
AND VALUABLE TABLES OF THE VTRENGTH AND LCMMB OF TBI DNITRD
■TATEB ABMT.
BY EDWARD D. MANSFIELD,
aXADOATB OF THE UlflTBD STATBB MILITABT ACAOEHT.
TENTH EDITION.
NEW YORK
PUBLISHED BY A. S. BARNES ds CO
No. 91 JOHN-STREET.
CINCINNATI :-H. W. DERBY & CO.
1849.
,4 ,
v_"
T' '
t
Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the fear ISU;,
Br A. 8. BARNES at Co.,
In the Clerk's OlBce of the District Court for the Southern District of
New York.
Starwcyped bj
&ICHA&D C. VALENTIIiK,
Ntw York.
« . ■• M A,ia^J^««^«#
a A. ALVOB.O, PriBUr,
Gorav of John ud Dutoh
PREFACE.
It has been wisely remarked by a distinguished
American statesman, that ''the commencement
of the Mexican War was the opening of a new
volume of American history."
Nations, like individuals, are often borne along
in their progress, without pausing to consider the
particular acts which are to shape and control
their future destiny; and perhaps there is no
subject on which the public mind is less likely to
act with caution and deliberation than on the
momentous question of peace or war.
The present Mexican war is a striking illus-
tration of this principle. It would appear, from
the public documents, that neither the President
nor Congress anticipated it until hostilities had
actually commenced, and it may well be doubted
if either can see the consequences which yet may
flow from it.
To pause, therefore, and review the past, to
examine into all the causes which have led to' the
unhappy estrangement of two sister Repablics,
lY PREFACE.
has seemed a fitting introduction to the narration
of those military achievements which now form
a part of the history of the country.
We have felt no pleasure in tracing the causes
which led to this war, and certainly none in con-
templating its progress and looking forward to its
final consequences. But when we pass to the army,
and behold the brilliant results obtained with such
small means, against such immense superiority of
force, and see the high military skill of the com-
manding officers sustained by the courage and
heroism of the troops, we feel a just pride in
describing their actions and recording their deeds.
In the preparation of this work great care has
been taken to select the most reliable sources of
information.
Thqse who have taken part in the stirring
scenes which are described must have viewed
them from different positions, and an honest dif-
ference of opinion in regard even to facts will
sometimes be found to exist. But the descrip-
tion of the great movements and battles is based
on public documents, despatches, and orders,
which must ever be the material of a reliable his-
tory of a war.
Cmdnnati, Januaiy, 1848.
CONTENTS.
CHAPTER L
Origin of the War with Mexico. — Settlement of Tezaa^ — Declaration of
Independence* — Santa Anna's Treaty. — Movement towards Annexa-
tion. — Correspondence of Boconegra. — Declaration of Almonte. — Mr.
C^.^\htmw%*m l?^»^^ g, — Lord Aberdeen's Declaration. — ^The Tyler Trea "
— The Joint Resoluti on. — Departure of Almonte. — General Taylor or-
dered to Texa8w--Strength of the Army at Corpus Christi . . Page 9
CHAPTER IL
^ar ineyitaMe. — General Scott at Washington. — Recommends an In-
of^e Army. — Mission of Mr. Slidell. — Downfall of Herrera. —
Departure of Slidell. — General Taylor marches from Corpus Christi. —
Arrives at Point Isabel — In front of Matamoras. — Captore of Captain
Tliomton's Party* — March of General Taylor to Point Isabel. — Battles
of Palo Alto and Resaca de la Palma. — Taylor's Official Reports . 22
CHAPTER III.
Action of Congrt^s. — Declaration of the President — Legislation. — Greneral
Scott's Views of the War. — His Comments on the Plan of Campaign. —
His Correspondence with Secretary Marcy. — The Grounds for his Opin-
ions. — Is ordered to remain at Washington 44
CHAPTER IV.
Campaign of the Rio Grande continued. — Movement of the Army. — March
to Monterey. — Battle of Monterey.^ — Armistice. — March to Saltillo. —
Wool's Corps. — Tampico. — Occupation of Victoria. — Conclusion of the
Campaign. — Gieneral Taylor's Despatches.^ — Results 56
CHAPTER V.
Government Plan to invade Northern Mexico. — Assemblage of Troops at
Fort Leavenworth. — Kearney's March to Santa Fd. — Nature of the
Country. — Retreat of the Mexicans. — Arrival at Santa F6. — Kearney 'h
Proclamation. — Kearney departs for California. — Wool's Expedition. —
Assembling of the Troops at San Antonio. — The Object of the Expedi-
tion. — March to Monclova ; to Pedas. — Wool joins Worth at Saltillo* —
Tkyior's March to Victoria 76
a2
6 CONTENTS.
CHAPTER VL
EzpedHioa of Captain Fremont — Arrival at Monterey, California. — So*-
pickms of Governor de Castro — Fremont takes position. — Returns hf
Oregon^ — Returns again to Monterey. — Is threatened by De Castro.—
Declares War. — Capture of Mexicans. — Sails from Monterey to Diego.
—Capture of the City of Angels. — Conquest of California. — Object of th«
Government — Marcy's Letter to Stevenson. — Marcy*8 Orders to Kear-
ney. — Scott's Orders. — Insurrection in New Mexica — Murder of Bent
—Battle of Covoda. — Battle of Pueblo de Taos.^ — Insurrection in Cali-
fornia. — March of Doniphan. — Battle of Brozitos. — Capture of El Pmo
— Battle of Sacramento.— ^'apture of Chihuahua.^ — March to Sal*
tiUo — ^Arrival at New Orleans. — March of Gilpin to the Rocky Moon-
tarns Pag« 91
CHAPTER VII.
General Scott ordered to Mexico. — Letter of the Secretary of War to
General Taylor.— Letter of the Secretary of War to General Scott —
General Scott leaves Washington. — His Letter to General Taylor. —
Plan of appointing a lieutenant-GeneraL — Scott reaches the Rio
Grande^ — Condition of things there. — Withdraws a part of Taylor's
Troops in compliance with the Orders of the War Department 110
CHAPTER VIIL
General Taylor's Movements. — ^Taylor's Position. — Santa Anna's Ad-
vance. — Importance of the event — Battle of Buena Vista. — Retreat of
the Mexicans. — Taylor*s Official Account — Santa Anna's Report, 119
CHAPTER IX.
Advance of the Army to Lobos ; thence to Antonio Lizardo. — Siege and
Capture of Vera Cruz. — Official Despatches. — March to the Interior. —
Battle of Cerro Gordo. — Official Despatches. — Capture of Puebla, 163
CHAPTER X.
Entrance of the American Army into PueUa. — Mexican Account —
American Officers. — Conduct of the Army. — Situation of Puebla. —
Character of the Country. — ^The Ancient Cholula. — Strength of tho
Army. — Scott's Proclamation. — Humanity of the Army. — Mission oi
Trist — Reasons for remauiing in Puebla. — Drilling of the Army. — Rais-
ing new Regiments. — New Volunteers. — Attack on the Train of M'ln-
tosh. — Advance of Pierce. — Concentration of the Army 203
CHAPTER XI.
Strength of the Army. — Reinforcements. — Divisions of the Army*-^-
March from Puebla^ — Hospitals of Puebla^ — Volcano of PopocatapetL—
\
CONTENTS. 7
PaflB of Rio Frio. — View of Mexico. — Valley of Mexico. — Lakes. —
Iniiiidatioii& — Topography of the Valley. — Position of the Army on
the 13th of August — Reconnoissance of the Rifles^— El Penon. —
Mexicalcingo. — ^Taming of Lake Chalco. — March to San Augustine.—
Skirmish at Buena Vista. — Concentration.^ — Position of the Army on
the 18th Page 221
CHAPTER XIL
Blazican Line of Defence. — Position of the American and Mexican Ar-
miea — Action of the 19th. — Position in the Hamlet of Contreras. — Po«
sition of General Scott — Arrangements for the Battle. — Distribution of
the American and Mexican Forces. — Battle of Contreras. — Rout of the
Mexicans. — Surrender of Mexican Generals. — ^Recapture of the Buena
Vista Guns. — Scott's Arrangements. — Evacuation of San Antonia. —
Storm of the T6te du Pont— Battle of Churubusco.— Defeat of the
Mexicans. — Loss. — ^Truce ^ 241
CHAPTER XIIL
Peace Negotiations. — President Polk's Commission. — Mexican Conditions.
— American Ultimatum. — Failure of Negotiations. — Scott's Notice to
Santa Anna. — ^Trial and Execution of the Deserters. — Description of
Chapultepec. — Of Molino del Rey. — Mexican Defences. — March of
Worth. — Strength of his Corps. — Battle of Molino del Rey. — Mexican
Loss. — ETacuatjpn of Molino del Rey. — Preparations for the Attack
of Chapultepec. — Erection of BatterieSi^ — Storm of Chapultepec. — ^Ac-
tion of the 13th. — Capture of Mexico — Entrance into the City. — Scott's
Addreas to the Soldiers. — Insurrection of the Leperos. — Appearance of
the City.— Reflections 373
CHAPTER XIV.
Siege of PneUa. — March of Santa Anna. — Desertion of his troops. — March
of Rea. — Battle of Haumantla. — Santa Anna's resignation. — Pefia y
Peiia President — Negotiations for peace. — Treaty signed. — Ratifica-
tions. — The treaty. — ^Territory acquired. — Losses of the army. — Names
of officers killed.— Conclusion 324
MEXICAN WAK.
CHAPTER I.
Oiigm of the War with Mexico.— Settlement of Texus^— Declal«iitfl|,
Independence. — Santa Anna's Treaty. — Movement towards Amumtt/llfi
'—Correspondence of Bocanegra, — Declaration of Almonte. — Mr. Cal*
hoon's reasons. — Lord Aberdeen's Declaration. — The Tyler Treaty. —
The Joint Reeolationw — Departure of Almonte. — General Taylor ordered
to Texas. — Strength of the AAny at Corpus Christi.
Till quite recently, the immense territory extending
from the Sabine to the Rio Grande was comparatively un-
inhabited. Comprehending a space large enough for an
empire, and within the mildest part of the temperate zone,
it was yet too remote from the inhabitants of ancient
Mexico on one hand, or from those of the northern Atlan-
tic States on the other, to be reached and cultivated at an
earlier period by the adventurous and advancing settlers of
America. The country belonged to Mexico, but was hardly
possessed by her people. A few towns immediately east
of the Rio Grande, and an occasional village or settlement
in the interior — such as Antonio de Bexar, Goliad, and
Nacogdoches — were the only marks of improvement
which indicated the civilization of the white man, or the
dominion of Mexico. Nor did the aboriginal inhabitants
appear much more numerous. The Camanches of the
northern districts, and a few scattered and fleeting tribes.
10 EMIOIIATION TO TEXAS.
wandered over the vast territories of uninhabited Texas,
but offered no very formidable obstacle to the progress
of civilization. .
Texas was in this almost desolate condition when it
attracted the roving eye of land speculation. Certain
persons in the United States foresaw the rapid and inevit-
able movement of the United States of the North towards
the Western Ocean, and sought to enhance their fortunes
by obtaining grants of Texan lands from the Mexican gpv-'
eroment. Among these was Stephen Austin, who obtained,
a large tract, and whose name has since been attached
both to a county and a town. With him, and with otherti .
to whom Mexico had made grants, came numerous par*
ties of colonists and adventurers, who sought, like their
leaders, to pursue their fortunes and avoid tlieir adversi-
ties, by successful enterprise in a new country, and by
sharing in the distribution of vast bodies of unoccupied
land. The number of these adventurers rapidly increased,
till they became more numerous than the Mexicans who
previously inhabited the country. The difference of race,
religion, and laws, was soon apparent in diversities of
sentiment and objects between the old and new inhabit-
ants. The Texan of the United States brought with .
him, not only greater energy and industry, but a wild and
restless ambition — a more intense and speculative pursuit
of future objects.
Where differences so deep and original as these exist
among different classes of people, they will soon become
manifested in external action. The new inhabitants soon
seized the direction of all public affairs, and Texas be-
came, in fact, the possession of these adventurers from a
foreign land, rather than of those ancient citizens to whose
CAUSES LBADINO TO INDEPENDENCE. 11
gOYernment it professed allegiance. The power thus ob-
tained was soon manifested in other acts. It is not in the
natare of things, that a country should change its inhabit-
ants and not also change its government. The new pos-«
sessors wiU assume the laws and institutions to which
their habits have been used and their sentiments assimi-
lated. It was so with Texas. No sooner did the settlers
from the United States possess the power, than they
looked round for the means of establishing their own
forms of government.
In the revolutions of Mexico, so rapid and often so
disastrous, the opportunities for change could never be long
wanting. In the case of Texas, such an occasion was
offered in the overlhro^ by Santa Anna, of the Mex-
ican Federal Government. This powerful chief being I J^
invested with the supreme magistracy, in a short time ^y^
after assumed absolute power. About this time, the peo-
ple of Texas having increased largely in population and
resources, petitioned the Mexican Congress for admission
into the confederation, as a separate State. The bearer
of this petition, and a commissioner to represent their
claims, was Stephen Austin. The Congress of Mexico
paid no attention to the petition ; but Austin imprudently
wrote back to the Texan authorities, advising them to
organize a State, without waiting for the consent of the
government. The letter was intercepted, and Austin, on
his return, arrested, carried back to the capital, and placed
daring a year in solitary confinement. The people of the
United States who had become citizens of Texas, were
naturally indignant at what they considered an outrage on
the right of petiticHi, and an insult to the dignity of their
commissioner.
12 WAR WlTHliEZICO.
Such was the feeling in Texas, when Santa Anna, having
eompleted his usurpation of the supreme power and de*
feated the Zacatecans, who opposed him, sent General
. Cos into Texas to enforce certain requisitions of the goy-
ernment One of these was the execution of the Act of
1830, prohibiting the emigration of Americans into Texas.
Another was the surrender of Lorenzo de Zavala, who
bad become a refugee in Texas, in consequence of moving
a law, in the Mexican Congress, directed against church
property. To enforce these demands, General Cos took
possession'of Antonio de Bexar. On the other hand, the
Texans prepared for an armed resistance, and on the 28th
of September, 1835, they attacked and defeated a party of
Mexicans at the town of Gonzales, on the Rio Guadalupe.-^.
Thus was commenced the war and revolution of Texas : »
a war which arose, on the part of Mexico, from an attempt
to enforce the authority of the government de facto (with-
out reference toithe Constitution) over the province of
Texas ; and on the side of Texas, in an obvious attempt
to/make that province virtually independent of Mexico. /
/ On the 3d of November, 1835, the delegates of Texar
assembled at San Felipe de Austin, and issued a solenm
declaration against Santa Anna and other military chief-
tains, " who had by force of arms overthrown the Federal
Institutions of Mexico, and dissolved the social compact
which existed between Texas and the other members of.
the Mexican confederacy."
The war thus commenced between Texas and the
mother country continued, with various fortune, till the
21st of April, 1836, when General Santa Anna was cap-
tured at the battle of San Jacinto, and the Mexican au-
thority over the Texans really destroyed.
CAPTURE OF SANTA ANNA. 13
On the 2d of March previously, the Texan delegates
assembled at Washington on the Brazos, made a formal
declaration of independence, signed a constitution, and
organized a government. This independence Santa Anna,
a captive in the hands of the Texan army, afterwards
bound himself to " solemnly acknowledge, sanction, and
ratify ;'* and to use his personal and official powers to pro-
cure without delay the ratification and confirmation of that
treaty by the legitimate government of Mexico.
Th e boundaries of Texas, as then defined, are of im-
portance as constituting one of the grounds of claim on
the part of the government of the United States against
Mexico. They were declared to be as follows : —
" Beginning at the mouth of the Rio Grande ; thence
up tlie principal stream of said river to its source ; thence
due north to the 42^ of north latitude ; thence along the
boundary line, as defined in the treaty between the United
States and Spain, (February, 1819,) to the beginning."
To any claim of boundary, however, resting upon this
concession of Santa Anna, it is well replied, that it was
made when he was under constraint, and was in its very
terms of no effect till ratified by the legitimate govern-
ment of Mexico. Accordingly when, a little while after-
_ wards, Bustamente became president of Mexico, he re-
pudiated this treaty, and recommenced the war with
Texas. This war was continued, in desultory and pre-
datory excursions, on both sides, till T^xas was finally
annexe d t^ the United States.
While things were in this state — the mother oopntry
Contending for its continued dominion, and the young
{>rovince for absolute independence — ^the Question of
lNNexatiom (as it is politically Called) arose botii in
B
14 ANNEXATION OF TEXAS.
the United States and Texas. The inha^}^nts of the
latter, we have said, were chiefly citizens of the United
• States— persons whom past adversities or future hopes
had impelled to this new region in pursuit of fortune* or
adventure. If it was natural for them thus to pursue
these new objects, it was equally natural that they should
desire to remain politically and socially connected with
the land of their birth and the home oi their associdtioiis.
Accordingly, as early as the 4th of August, 1637, soon
after she declared her independence, Texas proposed to
annex herself to the United States.^ The then president
of this country, Mr. Van Buren, declined the terms, for
reasons which were alike honorable to his sagacity as a
man, and his principles as a statesman. He declared,
that so long as we were bound by a treaty of amity and
commerce with Mexico, to annex Texas would necessa^
lily involve the question of war ; and that a disposition to
espouse the quarrel vnlh Mexico was at variance with the
spirit of the treaty, and with the poUcy and welfare of the
United States.'
Texas continued negotiations with the United States,
with Great Britain, France, and Mexico — the object of
which was to procure the acknowledgment of her inde-
pendence by Mexico, or her protection by some more
powerful government. Thus matters continued — ^a partial
war at one time, and a series of negotiations at another —
till the administration of President Tyler revived the plan
of ann^ation. On the 6th of October, 1843, the Hon.
A. .Ptf|dBiur, Secretary of State, proposed to the Texan
f.nvo^K^renewal of negotiations for the annexation of
> Vide State Papen. * Idem.
B0CANE6RA 8 LETTER. 16
•
Texas to ihe United States ; which was accepted by the
Texan executive.
In the mean while, the subject had been discussed m »
the newspapers, and the Mexican government availed it-
self of this information to make a fori^l declaration of its
views on this important point. Mr. Bbc^negra( the Mex-
ican Minister of Foreign Relations, addressed a, note^
(August 23, 1843) to Waddy Thompson, our minister in
Mexico, of which the following is a passage : —
" And if a party in Texas is now endeavoring to effect
its incorporation with the United States, it is from a con-
sciousness of their notorious incapability to form and
constitute an independent nation, without their having
changed their situation, or acquired any right to separate
themselves from their mother country. His Excellency
the Provisional President, resting on this deep conviction,
is obliged to prevent an aggression, unprecedented in the
annals of the world, from being consummated ; and if it
be indispensable for the Mexican nation to seek security
for its rights at the expense of the disasters of war^ it
will call upon God, and rely on its own efforts for the
defence of its just cause.^^
__ This declaration was a notice to the American govern-
ment of the effects to be anticipated from the annexation,
and fully justified the sagacity and firmness of Mr. Van
Buren. It was replied to, by Mr. Waddy Thompson, in
a haughty note, affirming that the notice of the Mexican
minister was a threat, or a warning ; but silent as to the
attitude really assumed by the United States.
A short time subsequent to this correspondence, and
' State Papen — Letter of Bocanegra.
16 4LM0NTE'8 lbttbr.
as if to prevent any niisunderstanding of the meaning of
Mexico, General Almonte, Mexican minister at Washing-
ton, addressed a note to Mr. Upshur, Secretary of State,
of which the following passage is a part : —
'' But if, contrary to the hopes and wishes entertained
by the government of the undersigned for the preservation
of the good understanding and harmony which should
reign between the two neighboring and friendly republics,
the United States should, in defiance of good faith, and the
principles of justice which they have constantly proclaim-
ed, commit the unheard-of act of violence of appropriating
to themselves an integrant part of the Mexican territory,
the undersigned, in the name of his nation, and now for
them, protests in the most solemn manner against such
an aggression ; and he moreover declares, by express order
of his government, that on sanction being given by the
Executive of the Union to the incorporation of Texas into
the United States, he will consider his mission ended,
seeing that, as the Secretary of State will have learned,
the Mexican government is resolved to declare war as
soon as it receives intimation of such an actJ*^^
Long previous to actual annexation, it will be observed,
the Mexican government had officially informed the Ez«
"ccutive of the United States, that war must inevitably
result from that act. It cannot, therefore, be said, with
any regard to truth, that the government of the United
States, in annexing Texas, did not have reason to antici-
pate that result, and did not neglect that preparation which
such anticipations required of a prudent administration.'
' General AImonte*B Letter, dated November 3d, 1843.
* In fact they made none till the war was commenced.
LORD Aberdeen's letter. 1 7
The plan of annexation, notwithstanding these exi)licit
declarations of the Mexican government, was anxiously
and sedulously pursued by the Executive of the United
States. Mr. J. C. Calhoun, who had succeeded Mr.
Upshur* as Secretary of State, signed with the Ministers
Plenipotentiary of Texas (Messrs. Van Zandt and Hen-
derson) a Treaty of Annexation, on the 12th of April,
1844. In the same month, the Secretary of State (Mr.
Calhoun) advised the Charg^ d' Affaires in Mexico, " that
the step had been forced on the government oi the
United States in self-defence, in consequence of the poli-
cy adopted by Great Britain in reference to the abolition
of slavery in Texas.'" At the same moment, there had
been presented by Mr. Pakenham, (British minister,)
and was on file in the Department of State, a solemn
declaration of the British government, by Lord Aberdeen,
that this idea of British interference was a gross mistake.'
In this declaration. Lord Aberdeen says, —
" With regard to Texas, we avow that we wish to see
slavery abolished there, or elsewhere ; and we should re-
joice, if the recognition of that country by the Mexican
government, should be accompanied by an engagement
on the part of Texas to abolish slavery, and under
proper conditions throughout the republic. But although
we earnestly desire and feel it to be our duty to promote
such a consummation, we shall not interfere unduly , or
with an improper assumption of authority with either
* Mr. Upahnr wai killed on board the PrincetoiL
* State ConMgpndence, April, 1844.
* Lord Aberdeen's Letter was dated December 26th, 1843 ; aud pre-
muUfd by Mr. Pakenham. February 26th, 1844.
b2 ' 2
]b TREATY REJECTED.
party, in order to insure the adoption of such a course.
We sliall counsel, but we shall not seek to compel or un^
duly control either party, ^^
Did the President and Secretary of Stale disbelieve ^
this declaration ? In any case, upon what evidence did
the Secretary declare, that the government of the United
States was forced into this step, in consequence of the
interference of Great Britain with slavery in Texas?
Upon what principle of the Constitution did the American'
government interfere with Texas for such a cause?—/
The plan of annexation, however, was strenuously pushed
by its projectors.
On the 22d of April, 1844, Mr. Tyler submitted to the
Senate a Treaty of Annexation, which was soon after re-
jected, and the question left open for public discussion.^
In consequence of the election of President Polk in
November, 1844, and the apparent approval of annexa-
tion by the people of the United States, Congress on the
Ist of March, 1845, passed what is called the Joint
Resolution, giving its consent that the territory ** right-
fully belonging to the Republic of Texas" might be
erected into a new State called the State of Texas ; sub-
ject, however, to the adjustment by this government of
** all questions of boundary that may arise with other
governments."
The terms of this Resolution admit that Texas might
have claimed boundaries which were not rightfully belong-
ing to her, and that these " questions of boundary" had yet
to be settled.
To the terms of the Joint Resolution, Texas assented
' Sm th» Public Docttmcnti of 1844
OEN. TAYLOR ORDERED TO CORPUS CHRISTI. 19
by her ordinance of July 4th, 1845, and having formed her
Constitution, became virtually a State in the American
Union.* Two days after this (July 7th) the same Con-
vention requested the President of the United States to
occupy the ports of Texas, and send an army to their
defence. This desire the President of the United States
immediately complied with.
General Zachary Taylor, then in command at Camp
Jessup, was ordered to move his forces into Texas, weeks
before the War Department had received information of
the Texan ordinance. On the 28th of June, Mr. Donel-
son, then minister to Texas, and to whom General Taylor
was referred for advice upon his movements, wrote him
that he had best move his forces *^ without delay to the
western frontier of Texas," and also informing him that
Corpus Christi, on Aranzas Bay, was the best point for
the assembling of his troops. The same letter also ad-
mitted that the country between the Nueces and the Rio
Grande uxu in dispute^ the Texans holdings Corpus
Christi and the Mexicans Santiago, at the mouth of the
Rio Grande.*
General Taylor proceeded immediately with the forces
under his command to Aranzas Bay, and in the beginning
of August, 1845, had taken the position assigned him by the
government. All the troops in the west, the northwest, and
the Atlantic which could be spared, were ordered to join
him. In November, 1845, by the report of the Adjutant-
General, his army was composed as follows :-
' DoemneiitB q#1845.
' Mr. Doiiebon*s Letter 28th of June 1845.~PabUc Doeomenta
* AiQatant-GcBenl't Report, November 26th, 1845.
20 STRENGTH OF THE ARMT.
General Staff -
-
-
-
24
2d Regiment of Dragoons
m
-
-
596
1st
of Artillery
-
-
-
236
2d
it <(
-
-
233
3d
ii a
-
-
219
4th '•
« it
-
-
235
3d Regiment of Infantry
-
-
533
4th "
ti (1
•
-
511
6th "
<i it
-
-
578
7th "
it it
-
-
442
8lh "
it a
-
-
447
Aggregate
-
-
4,049
This was General Taylor's army in November, 1845,
when, by the confession of the goyernment, the territory
between his position and Santiago, or rather, between the
Nueces and the Rio Grande, was in dispute^ and the
subject of negotiation for boundaries.
What, however, was at this moment the real position
of affairs in regard to tlie question of war ? Was there any
room to doubt that war was the necessary consequence
of annexation ? Was there any thing to justify the total
neglect of all preparation for so serious a conflict, as war
with a nation, however inferior, of seven millions of people?
The facts, as we have reviewed them, are simple and y
brief. /
Mexico, hearing from the United States the distant
rumors of an intended annexation of Texas, announces by
Mr. Bocanegra to the American minister, that she will
resent such an act at the expense of the dis^ters of war.
In the same year, (1843,) and a few months later, the
Mexican minister, General Almonte, reaffirms the same
\\
' ^ i«»IJP
STATS OF THE QUESTION. 21
fixed determination of his government in a letter to the
American Secretary of Stale.
When the act for annexation is passed, Almonte de-
clares in his final note to the Secretary of State, that it is
the most unjust act recorded in the annals of history;
protests against it ; declares that his government will resist
it by all the means in its power; and demands his passports.
The diplomatic correspondence of our government
shows, that it apprehended war — that it knew well the
sole cause by which war would come — and that in the
minds of the President and his cabinet, the annexation of
Texas, and its disputed boundaries, was the sole founda-
tion for any rupture with Mexico.
The march of General Taylor's army was evidently
and declaredly^ intended to meet the contingencies of
such a rupture.
The most remarkable fact in this transaction, is that,
with this apprehension of war vividly impressed upon
the mind of the government, the President should never
have asked Congress for one dollar of money, or one
company of soldiers in addition to the provisions of the
peace establishment! Upon what principle was it as-
sumed, that an entire province could be wrested from
one empire and give no cause for war ? Upon what idea
of prudence or sagacity was all preparation for that war
neglected, till battles were already fought, and the op-
posing nation excited by all the worst feelings of national
and mairti^controversy ?
The ^Siscto^ this neglect we shall sec in the series of
subsequenTevents.
' See Don^bcm't Comspondenoe.
1/
S3 WAX INBTITABLB.
CHAPTER II.
War ineyitable — General Scott at Waflhington — Reoommendi an inereaee
of the Army — MiflBion of Mr. Slidell — Downfall of Herrera— Depurtvre
of Slidell — Genera] Taylor inarches from Corpus Christi — ArriTes at
Point Isabel — In front of Metamoras — Capture of Captain Thornton's
party— March of General Taylor to Point Isabel—Battles of Palo Alto
and Resaca de la Palma — Taylor's OfiGcial Report
We have traced in the preceding chapter the negotia*
tions of the United States with Mexico and Texas to that
point, in which the Mexican Secretary for Foreign Af-
fairs, and the Mexican minister at Washington^ officially
announced that the annexation of Texas to the United
States would be considered just cause of war, and the lat-
ter had departed from Washington with hostile declara-
tions. That this declaration was believed, and that war
would result from that act, the American Charge dHAf*
fairts in Texas (Mr. Donelson) shows in his entire cor-
respondence. In his letter of June 4th, 1845, to the Sec-
retary of State, he declares his full belief that war will
occur, although he chose to attribute U to the instigation
of the British minister, Mr. Elliott.
Mr. Donelson makes this remarkable announcement : —
" I look upon war with Mexico as inevitable — a war
dictated by the British minister here for the purpose of
defeating annexation, and intended at all events to deprive
both Texas and the United States of all claim to the
country between the Nueces and the Rio Grande, at the
WAR INEVITABLE. 23
time the right of Texab to the protection of the United
States arises under the contingency anticipated by you at
the date of your last despatch to me."
The " contingency" here spoken of by the Charg6, was
stated in Mr. Buchanan's letter of May 23d, 1845, and
was simply the acceptance, by Texas, of the conditions of
annexation stated in the joint resolution of Congress.
The question of ** boundaries" was by that resolution
and by all prior negotiations, left open for future discus-
sion. Mr. Buchanan, therefore, cautiously uses the term
'' state," in reference to the annexation of Texas, and tells
Mr. Donelson(23d of May, 1845) that, in the event of
annexation, the President will deem it his duty to " em-
ploy the army in defending that state against the attacks
of any foreign power." It was the state of Texas, what-
ever that might be, which, in May, 1845, the President
undertook to defend, and not any imaginary boundary,
or supposed claim of Texas beyond the Nueces, the Rio
Grande, or any other stream.
Under the idea, however, as expressed in his letter of
the 4th of June, that war was inevitable, Mr. Donelson
asks the government for an army to defend the supposed
frontier of Texas, and it is under this requisition that the
corps of General Taylor was ordered to Corpus Christi,
and became, in another year, the invading army of Mex-
ico ! The cause of the war — the manner in which it was
10 arise and to be carried on, are projected and shadowed
out 80 minutely in the diplomatic correspondence of
Messrs. Buchanan and Donelson, as to leave the historian
of these events no doubtful points to discuss. If they are
not certain and fixed on the map of Time, in vain shall
we look for any faithful volume of human transactions.
24 OBJECTS OF THE ARMT.
What w is in prospect for the army when arrived in
Texas, and its purpose there, is thus stated by Mr. Don*
elson : —
** Under such circumstances, the officer intended for
the command of the United States troops on the Texan
frontier may expect to find a large force of the enemy there;
and it is suggested whether that officer ought not at once
to be selected, and ordered to some near and convenient
point for the purpose of communicating with me, and
providing the most prompt means of action the moment
he is advised of the decision of the Convention of Texas
on the terms of union proposed in our joint resolution."
The requisition of Mr. Donelson was complied with.
An express was sent to General Taylor, at Fort Jessup ;
his troops were ordered into Texas ; and Captain Stock*
ton was ordered with a squadron into the Gulf of Mexico ;
both with tlie avowed object of repelling the attacks of
Mexico, — an anticipated consequence of annexation.^
During this period General Scott was at Washington,
in the diligent performance of his military duties as the
commander of the army, without taking any public part
in the political discussions of the day.
The commander of the army, even on the peace estab-
lishment of the United States, must necessarily carry on an
extensive coirespondence, and have the oversight of many
and various departments of the. public service. General
Scott found ample scope for his official talents and time, in
both the superintendence and the anticipation of the wants
and means of the army. At the time General Taylor waa
despatched to the frontier of Texas, the American army
* Mr. Bucnauan^s letter to Mr. Douolsou, dated June 15th, 1B4S.
INCREASE OF THE ARMY. 25
was actually of less numerical strength than it had been
in any year since 1808 ! And yet the official documents
prove that at that very moment of time the government
was in daily expectation of war ; and yet the Executive
did not ask from Congress an additional regiment, nor did
Congress anticipate the need of additional means !^
General Scott, however, in his annual report upon the
state of the army, recommended, what the other depart-
ments of the government seem strangely to have over-
looked, — a small increase of the army. He pointed out a
very easy method of doing this, without raising additional
regiments, or even requiring additional officers. During
the presidency of Mr. Monroe, and while Mr. Calhoun
was Secretary at War, (and, indeed, upon his recom-
mendation,) the plan had been adopted of having skeleton
regiments f in which all the officers were retained, but the
number of privates reduced one-half. The reason for
this was very strong. It was that, having all the officers
ready, and a skeleton of the regiment, the number of the
aimy might be doubled, in time of emergency, by new
enlistments, without the expense of permanent mainten-
ance. Accordingly, the regiments of artillery and infantry
had but forty-two privates in each company, when the
number should have been eighty-four. The Military
Academy had furnished a large number of valuable offi-
cers, many of whom were attached to the regiments by
brevet.
General Scott proposed to increase the army, simply
by fining up these skeleton companies, and giving em-
' The Preadent twice in bis Message (December, 1845) alluded to the
danger of a war with Mexico ; but recommended nothing for the army.
C
86 scott's recommendation.
ployment to these brevet officers. In his report (Novem-
ber 20th, 1845) he says :
" By adding ten privates to each company of dragoons,
now fifty privates each, and twenty privates to each cona-
pany of artillery and infantry, now forty-two privates each,
of the present establishment, we should have a total in-
crease (by this plan) for twenty companies of dragoons,
forty of artillery, and eighty of infantry, of twenty-six
hundred privates — ^without the addition of a regiment, or
of one non-commissioned officer, musician, or artificer.
See organization (table) of the regular army of the Uni-
ted States, Army Register. But, in this case, an ad-
ditional subaltern (second lieutenant) to each company of
dragoons and infantry (one hundred) would be necessary.
There are, at present, about ninety-five brevet second
lieutenants (graduates of the Military Academy — strangely
called supernumerary by act of April 29, 1812, sec. 4)
attached to coni|lanies, and doing duty with them. These
officers would be absorbed, by promotion, should this
second plan of augmentation be carried out, and the
future -supernumerary or brevet second lieutenants (grad-
uates of the Academy) be kept down, for a series of
years, to a small number — not more than sufficient to sup-
ply three officers constantly on duty with each company,
and to give others for staff and detached duties which the
progress of the service will, in five or seven years, cer-
tainly demand."
This was General Scott's recommendation without
looking at the question of war with Mexico ; although it
now appears from official documents, that the war was
then in the contemplation of the cabinet. Had the Presi-
dent recommended, and Congress acceded to even this
\\
MEXICANS WILLING TO TREAT. 27
small increase of the military force, it may be doubted
whether the invasion of Mexico, and the sanguinary bat-
tles which followed, would ever have occurred. General
Taylor's army would have been increased early in the
spring, and the Mexican general would, not improbably,
have refrained from an attack, to which he was tempted
and invited by the weakness of the American force.
In the autumn previous to this report, but after General
Taylor's army were assembled at Corpus Christi, and
while war was apparently inevitable, the President again
resorted to negotiation by means of an indirect cor-
respondence with Mr. Black, American consul at Mex-
ico. The Mexican government was inquired of,^ whether
they would receive an envoy, " intrusted with full
powers to adjust all the questions in dispute between
the two governments." The Mexican Minister for
Foreign Affairs (Manuel De La Peila Y. Pena) acceded
to this proposition, provided the mission was frank and
free, without the appearance of coercion — and that the
American squadron, then off Vera Cruz, was recalled.'
In saying this, and making other statements to the
American agents, the Mexican cabinet alleged, that
they wished to avoid irritation in the people of Mexico ;
and in fact, intimated that the existing administration
was, as to this point, weak — and feared the appearance
of yielding too readily to the wishes of the United
States. The Mexican government desired peace ; but
feared the popular excitement.
The cabinet at Washmgton immediately appointed Mr.
' Mr. Buchanan's Letter to Mr. Black, September 17th, 1845.
* Mr. Peiia T. Pefla, (October 18th, 1845,) to Mr. Black.
28 MR. SLIDBLL NOt RECEIVED.
John Slidell envoy to Mexico. He arrived at Sacri-
ficios on the 29th of November,^ and hastened to the
city of Mexico. At Puebla, he was met by our consul,
(Mr. Black,) who informed him that the Mexican gov-
ernment were surprised that the United States had sent
an envoy so suddenly — that they were not prepared to
receive him — that he was not expected till January —
and in fine, that they were afraid his appearance would
prove destructive to the government, and thus defeat
the intentions of peace.' Mr. Slidell seems not to have
understood the obvious position of the Mexican min-
ister, nor to have subjected his impatience, in any degree,
to the dictates of prudence. He hurried on, and from
the 6th to the 20th of December, but two weeks, ad-
dressed three imperative notes to Mr. Pei^a Y. Pefia,
demanding the consideration of his credentials, and an
answer to his demand. The Mexican administration
was in instant danger of dissolution, and desired delay,
that they might better secure peace. The eflfect of Mr.
Slidell's imperative haste was, to defeat the peaceful
intentions of the Mexican government, and hurry it to
an abrupt denial of the American minister. On the 20th
of December, twelve days from the date of his first note,
Mr. Slidell was officially informed, that the Mexican
government could not admit him "to the exercise of
the functions of the mission conferred on him by the
United States government."' The ground of the re-
^ Mr. Black to Mr. Baohanan, December 18th, 1845.
• Mr. Black*! LeUer to Bachanan, December 18th, 1845. Slidell*! Let-
Utr to Buchanan, December 17th, 1845.
* M. Pefia Y Pefia'a Letter to SlideD, December 90th, 1845
REASONS GIYEN. 29
fusal was, that the American envoy was appointed as a
general and ordinary minister — when, in consequence of
the interrupted and broken relations between the two
nations, he should have been appointed a commissioner
to settle the specific differences which were in dispute
between the countries. The diplomatic correspondence,
however, proves conclusively, that a fear of impending
revolution, as a consequence of negotiating with the
United States, was hurried to a premature crisis by the
untimely importunities of Mr. Slidell. The dreaded
revolution took place, and in nine days after, (the 29th
of December,) the administration of President Herrera
was overthrown. His successor, Paredes, was a mili-
tary chief — who, on the 2d January, (1846,) was ush-
ered by the troops into the capital of Mexico. A tempo-
rary government was soon formed, of which General
Almonte, late minister to the United States, was a lead-
ing member.'
Mr. Slidell retired to Jalapa, where he remained till
March, when under instructions from the Department of
State, he again made overtures to the Mexican govern-
ment.' To this new proposition, the Mexican minister
for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Costillo Y. Lanzas) again re-
turned an unequivocal denial.^ He informed the Ameri-
can envoy, that it was the firm intention of the Mexican
government to admit only a plenipotentiary from the
United States, clothed " with special powers to treat
* Slidell to Bachanan, January 14th, 184&
* Slidell to Cortillo Y. Lanzas, March 1st, 1846.
' CostiUo Y. Lanzas to SlideU, March 12th, 184&
c2
30 TR00P8 ORDERED TO THE RIO ORANDB.
upon the question of Texas, and upon this alaaa^^ and
that upon this point its resolve was immutable^ When
this answer was returned, the reader of history will ob-
serve, that General Taylor's troops had already taken
position on the Rio Grande, and that their presence there
was deemed, in Mexico, a new wrong and injury^ to thai
republic.
This letter closed, on the part of Mexico, its diplo*
matic correspondence with the United States. On the
21st of March, Mr. Costillo Y. Lanzas enclosed to Mr.
Slidell his passports from the Mexican territories.
Long before this final refusal of the Mexican govem-
mcnt to receive Mr. Slidell, the President of the United
States had determined to take the initial, and advance
his troops to the Rio Grande. On the 20th of January,
Mr. Buchanan informed Mr. Slidell, that the President
had already ordered the army of Texas to advance and
take position on the left bank of the Rio Grande, and a
strong fleet to assemble in the Gulf of Mexico.' This
was done before the answer of Mr. Peila Y. Pena was
known at Washington ; and when the Mexican govern* .
ment had earnestly desired that no appearance of co-
ercion should be allowed.
The order, by which the army was moved from Corpus .^
Christi to the Rio Grande, was dated January 13th,
1846, before the government had received the cor-
respondence of Slidell with Pefia Y. Peiia, and before
it knew of the overthrow of Herrera, and the accession
' General T«yIor*« Report, Murch 8th, 1846^
* Buchanan to Slidell, January 30th, 1846.
GENERAL TATLOR's ORDERS. 81
of Paredes.* h suggested to General Taylor the
''poinbj opposite Metamoras and Mier, and the vicinity
of Laredo," as stations for the American army.*
On the 8th of March, the advance column of the
army under Colonel Tviriggs commenced its march from
Corpus Chris tiy^ and on the 18th, the whole was con-
centrated near the banks of the Arroyo Colorado, about
thirty miles from Metamoras. Here a party of irregular
Mexican cavalry (rancheros) appeared on the opposite
banks, and signified to the officer making a reconnais-
sance, that an attempt to pass the river would be an act
of hostility.^ Notwithstanding this notice, the army
crossed the river on the 20th, and on the 25th, established
its position at Point Isabel ; the buildings of which the
Mexican prefect attempted to burn, as he left the place.'
On the 28th of March, General Taylor took his posi-
tion within cannon range of Metamoras.^ The Mexican
forces in the town commenced preparing batteries to
bear on the American camp ; and General Taylor also
erected batteries to command Metamoras. Such was
the position of the parties, when a conference was held
between Generals Worth and La Vega as to the objects
* PaUic DocuTnents. Secretaiy Marcy's Letter to General Taylor,
January 13th, ld46.
* Theae weie Mexican towns, in eight of which, and on territory claimed
fay Mexico, the army waa directed to take post
■ General Taylor*! Report, March 8th, 1846.
* General Taylor's Letter, 2l8t of March, 1846
* General Taylor's Report, March SSth.
* General Taylor's Report, March S9th. In this letter he states, that
a battery of four pieces had betn so mounted, as to command the public
square of Metamoras
/
82 WAR UNAVOIDABLE.
in advancing ihe army. The conference was fruitless of
any results.
At this time, it was obvious to all intelligent minds that
war was unavoidable. The crisis — to which the annexa-
tion of Texas clearly pointed — had come. Mr. Slidell
had received his final rejection from Mr. Costillo Y. Lan-
zas, on the 12th of March. On the 8th, (four days before,)
the army had marched from Corpus Christi to the Rio
Grande. It had now arrived in front of Metamoras,
where the forces of Mexico were arrayed, and where the
declarations of officers, the armament of batteries, and all
the paraphernalia of martial display, indicated an instant
conflict. Notwithstanding all these plain indications of
war, the movements of the administration at home exhibit*
ed no symptoms of any thing but unbroken and continued /
peace. The recommendations of General Scott for an
increase of the army were disregarded. The President
and Congress moved placidly on, as if neither arms or
money, strength or blood were required to secure its easy
victory over a weak and efieminate foe. Some prepara-
tions had heretofore been deemed necessary by statesmen
to meet the exigencies of war, even with very inferior
powers. In this instance, there was none. The official
returns show that one-half the entire army of the United
States was in the corps of General Taylor, while various
military posts and forts in the northwest and on the At-
lantic, were entirely deprived of their garrisons to make
up the forces on the Rio Grande.* Even this. army was
almost totally without the wagons, animals, and drivers ne-
cessary for common field transportation. They had to be
' Report of (^ouf nl Scoit Public Documrntii of 1845.
CAPTURE OF CAPTAIN THORNTON. 33
procured in the heart of the country, at places near two
thousand miles from the scene of operations.^ The march
of the American army to the Rio Grande — the erection
of batteries within gunshot of Metamoras — ^the appearance
of Mexican parties on the Arroyo Colorado — ^the notice
by them that the passage of that stream by the American
troops would be considered an act of war — and the con-
centration of large bodies of Mexican troops, known to
have been marched to that vicinity — all announced, by no
uncertain indications, that the conflict of war was about ^
to commence, and the annexation of Texas to be followedj
by its natural and necessary consequences.
^ On the 24th of April, General Arista assumed the chief
command of the army of Mexico. On the same day
General Taylor detached a party of 63 dragoons to watch
the course of the river above Metamoras. This party,
ander the command of Captain Thornton, were watched
by the Mexicans, and at a point about thirty miles from
the American camp, were surprised and attacked. After
the loss of sixteen men killed and wounded, they were
compelled to surrender to the superior forces of the Mex-
icans, who in large numbers had surrounded them in a
fenced plantation field.' ' This was the first actual fight
of the war, and was received by the Mexicans as an au-
gury favorable, but fallacious in the events which follow-
ed, to their success. General Arista, desirous of making
a favorable impression, treated his prisoners with distin-
guished respect and kindness.
> See the Letter of Colonel Cro«, dated Norember 33d, 1845, detailing
the fact, that the army had no means of field transportation whatever. —
Public Doc. 119, 29th Congreei.
* Captaiu Hardee's Report, April !26Ui, 1846.— Pub. Doc. 119.
3
34 ATTACK ON FORT BROWN.
Three days after this affair, the camp of Captain Walk-
er's Texan Rangers was surprised, and several killed and
wounded.^ This was between Point Isabel and Meta-
moras. In the mean while, it was ascertained that a large
body of the Mexican army had crossed the river (Rio
Grande) above,' and that another corps was about to cross
below. General Taylor was convinced that the object oi
attack was Point Isabel, which had been left in care of a
small detachment, and where a large depot of provisions
invited the enemy. Leaving an unfinished field-work,
under tlie command of Major Brown, and garrisoned by
the 7th infantry, with Lowd's and Bragg's companies of
artillery, he marched for Point Isabel on the 1st of May,
with liis main force, and arrived on the next day.
Tlie departure of General Taylor with his army, fur-
nished the enemy in Metamoras with the opportunity for a
safe attack on Fort Brown. At five in the morning of the
3d of May, a heavy bombardment was commenced from
the batteries in Metamoras, and continued at intervals till
the lOlh, when the gallant defenders of the fort were re-
lieved. In this defence. Major Brown, Captain Hawkins,
and Captain Mansfield were greatly distinguished, both
for skill and gallantry. The former was killed by a shell,
and the defence was vigorously continued by Captaia
Hawkins. Captain Mansfield was an engineer officer,
under whose direction the fort was built, and by whose
skilful conduct the defences were increased and strength-
ened during the siege.'
The siege of Fort Brown was raised by the arrival of
' General Taylor^s Report, May 3d, 1846. Captain Walker was nof
present ' Same. — Bub. Doc. 119.
' Ueports of Major Brown, Captain Uawkias, aad G«Beral Taylor.
FORT BROWN RELISTED. 35
the victorious army of Taylor, which had just fought the
battles of Palo Alto and Resaca de la Palma. It appears
that General Arista, who was now in command of the
Mexican army, had assembled in all about eight thousand
men at Metamoras, and being well advised of the strength
of the American forces, thought the time had arrived for
a decisive blow. Th6 capture of Captain Thornton's
party had also emboldened the Mexican troops. Arista
saw that Point Isabel, the depot of large quantities of
provisions and mihtary munitions, was comparatively de-
fenceless. To take this place would, therefore, both cut
off the supplies of Taylor's army, and leave it isolated in
the heart of the enemy's country. The plan of Arista
was to cross the Rio Grande, get in the rear of General
Taylor's army, capture Point Isabel, and then fall on the
American army.^ The plan was judicious, and was only
prevented from being carried out, by the accidental infor-
mation brought to General Taylor by one of Thornton's
party — sent in by the Mexican commander P The rapid
return of the army to Point Isabel was a consequence of
this information, and the additional fact that the enemy
was preparing to cross below. Either the Mexican army
was dilatory in its movement, or the body detailed to
cross below was unable to form a junction, for the forces of
Taylor reached the depot at Isabel without encountering
the enemy.
[ Having obtained the object of his expedition, and gar-
risoned the depot with new troops, the American general
is an inference from the facts stated by General Taylor.
-VP"""**' Taylor states in his letter of May 3d, that in consequence of
the deficiency in light troops, he was '* kejJt ignorant" of the ememv's
86 BATTLE OF PALO ALTO.
commenced his return to Fort Brown on the 7th of May,
a week after his departure. The army was accompanied
by a train of wagons, and encamped at night about seven
miles from Isabel. The next day (the 8th) the march
was resumed, and at noon the enemy was discorered
drawn up in battle array upon a prairie three miles from
the Palo Alto. The army was halted, and the men re-
freshed at a pool. The line was formed in two wings
The right, commanded by Colonel Twiggs, was composed
of the 5th Infantry, Colonel Mcintosh ; dd Infantry, Cap-
tain Morris ; 4th Infantry, Major Allen ; JR^inggold's Light
Artillery ; two eighteen-pounders under Lt. Churchill ;
and two squadrons "of Dragoons under Captains Ker and
May. The left wing, under the command of Lt. Colonel
Belknap, was formed by a battalion of Artillery, Colonel
Childs, Captain Duncan's Light Artillery, and the 8th
Infantry, under Captain Montgomery. The train, was left
in the rear, protected by a guard. ^
At two p. M., the army advanced by heads of columns,
till the Mexican cannon opened upon them, when they
were deployed into line, and Ringgold^s Light ArtiUery
On the right, poured forth its rapid and deadly fire on the
enemy. The Mexican cavalry, mostly Lancers, were on
their left, and were forced back by the destkuctive dis-
charges of artillery. To remedy this, General Arista or-
dered Torrejon, general of cavalry, to charge the American
right. This he did, but was met by the Flying Artillery,
under Lt. Ridgely, and by tlie 5th Infantry. The Lan-
cers were again driven back. At this period the prairie
grass was set on fire, and under cover of its smoke the
Americans advanced to the position just occupied by the
Mexican cavahry. Again a Mexican division of Lancers
C»^i^'^
MAJOR RINGGOLD WOUNDED. 37
charged, under the command of Col. Montero,^ but with
as little success. The continuous fire of artillery disor-
dered and drove back the enemy's columns. On the left
wing of our army, attacks of the Mexicans were met by
Duncan's battery, and by other troops of that division.
The combat on our side was chiefly carried on by artil-
lery ; and never was there a more complete demonstration
of the superior skill and energy of that Arm of service, as
conducted by the accomplished graduates of West-Point.
He who was the life and leader of the Light Artillery,
— Major Ringgold — was in this engagement mortally
wounded, and died in a few days.
The battle terminated with the possession, by the
Americans, of the field, and the retreat during the night
of the Mexicans. Arista, dating his despatch, says, '* in
sight of the enemy y at night. ^^ This might be true ; but
he was in retreat, and took a new position several miles
off, at Resaca de la Palma. A ravine here crossed the
road, and on either side it was skirted with dense thickets.
This ravine was occupied by the Mexican artillery. The
position was well chosen ; and with troops better skilled
in the use of artillery, and with greater energy of body,
might have easily been defended.
General Taylor had encamped on the field of battle,
from which he did not depart till two p. m. the next day.
In two hours, the American army came in sight of the
Mexican array. The dispositions of our troops were soon
made. A battery of artillery, under Lt. Ridgely, moved
up the main road, while the 3d, 4th, and 5th Regiments
of Infantry deployed on either flank to support it and act
' Axista*! Despatch.
38 BATTLE OF RE8ACA DB LA PALMA.
as skirmishers. The action commenced by the fire of the
Mexican artillery, which was returned by Ridgely's bat-
tery and by the infantry on the wings. In this firing, the
Mexican cannon wSre well managed by Generals La Vega
and Requena, and the eflfect began to be severely felt on
the American lines. It was necessary to dislodge them ;
and this duty was assigned to Captain May of the Dra-
goons. It was here that this officer became so distin-
guished. The feharge was gallantly made. The Dragoons
cut through the enemy. The artillerymen were dispersed,
and General La Vega taken prisoner. The Dragoons,
however, had advanced beyond support, and in turn fell
back on the main body. The regiments of infantry now
charged the Mexican line, and \i\e battle was soon ended.
Their columns, now broken by successive charges, were
miable to bear the continued and well-directed fire poured
upon them by both infantry and artillery. They fled pre-
cipitately from the field, and were rapidly pursued by the
•A^roerican rearguard. The Mexicans lost many prisoners,
and ceased not their flight till they either crossed or were
overwhelmed in the waters of the Rio Grande. In these
engagements neither cowardice nor feebleness was attribu-
ted to them. They fought gallantly, behaved well, and were
only conquered by that union of physical strength and
superior skill, with which some nations are fortunately
gifted, by the natural influence of climate and the artificial
developments of science.
In these engagements the commander of the American
forces, General Zachary Taylor, displayed the utmost
coolness and bravery — exposing himself in the most dan-
gerous positions, and encouraging the troops by his heroic
example. After the battles were ended, his attention to
GEN. TATLOk's DESPATCHES. 39
the wounded and tiie dying, whether friend or foe, evinced
that sympathy with suflfering humanity which is ever in-
separable from true courage.
We here insert the official report :
Headquarters Army or Occupation, )
Camp at Palo Alto, Texas, May 9, 1846. }
Sir : — I have the honor to report that I was met near this
place yesterday, on my march from Point Isabel, by the
Mexican forces, and after an action of about five hoiu%, dis-
lodged them from their position, and encamped upOn the field.
Our artillery, consisting of two 18-pounders and two light
batteries, was the arm chiefly engaged, and to the excellent
manner in which it was manoeuvred and served is our suc-
cess mainly due.
The strength of the enemy is believed to have been about
six thousand men, with seven pieces of «rtillcry, and eight
hundred cavalry. His loss is probably at least one hundred
killed. Our strength did not exceed, all told, twenty-three
hundred, while our loss was comparatively trifling — four men
killed, three officers and thirty-seven men wounded, several
of the latter mortally. I regret to say that Major Ringgold,
3d artillery, and Captain Paige, 4th infantry, are severely
wounded. Lieut. Luther, 2d artillery, slightly so.
The enemy has fallen back, and it is believed has repassed
the river. I have advanced parties now thrown forward in
his direction, and shall move the main body immediately.
In the haste of this first report, I can only say that the
officers and meti behaved in the most admirable manner
throughout the action. I shall have the pleasure of making
a more detailed report when those of the different commanders
shall be received.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Z. TAYLOR,
BroTet Brigadier-general, U. S. A. Commandiiiff.
40 GEN. TAVL0R*8 DE8PATCRB8.
HlAOaUAKTUU AufY OF OcCUPATIOir, 1
Camp at Resaca de la Palma, 3 miles from Matamoraa, >
10 o'clock, p. M^May 9, 1846. )
Sir : — I have the honor to report that I inarched with the
main body of the army at 2 o'clock to-day, having previously
thrown forward a body of light infantry into the forest,
which covers the Matamoras road. When near the spot
where I am now encamped, my advance discovered that a
ravine crossing the road had been occupied by the enemy
with artillery. I immediately ordered a battery of field
artillery to sweep the position, flanking and sustaining it by
the 8d, 4th, and 5th regiments, deployed as skirmishers to the
right and left. A Heavy fire of artillery and of musketry
was kept up for some time, until finally the enemy's batteries
were carried in succession by a squadron of dragoons and the
regiments of infantry that were on the ground. He was soon
driven from his position, and pursued by a squadron of dra-
goons, battalion of artillery, 3d infantry, and a light battery,
to the river. Our victory has been complete. Eight pieces
of artillery, with a great quantity of ammunition, three
standards, and some one hundred prisoners have been taken ;
among the latter, Gen. La Vega, and several other ofiicers.
One general is understood to have been killed. The enemy
has recrossed the river, and I am sure will not again molest
us on this bank.
The loss of the enemy in killed has been most severe.
Our own has been very heavy, and I deeply regret to report
that Lieut. Inge, 2d dragoons, Lieut. Cochrane, 4th infantry,
and Lieut. Chadbourne, 8th infantry, were killed on the
field. Lieut. Col. Payne, 4th artillery, Lieut. Col. Mcintosh,
Lieut. Dobbins, 3d infantry, Capt. Hooe, and Lieut. Fowler,
5th infantry, and Capt. Montgomery, Lieuts. Gates, Selden,
McClay, Burbank and Jordan, 8th infantry, were woimded.
The extent of our loss in killed and wounded is not yet ascer.
tained, and is reserved for a more detcdled report.
GEN. Taylor's despatches. 41
The affair of to-day may be regarded as a proper supple-
ment to the caononade of yesterday ; and the two taken to-
gether, exhibit the coolness and gallantry of our officers and
men in the most favorable light. All have done their duty,
and done it nobly. It will be my pride in a more circum-
stantial report of both actions, to dwell upon particular in-
stances of individual distinction.
It affords me peculiar pleasure to report that the field-work
opposite Matamoras has sustained itself handsomely during a
cannonade and bombardment of 168 hours. But the pleasure
is alloyed with profound regret at the loss of its heroic and
indomitable commander, Major Brown, who died to-day from
the efiect of a shell. His loss would be a severe one to the
service at any time, but to the army under my orders, it is
indeed irreparable. One officer and one non-commissioned
officer killed, and ten men wounded, comprise all the casual-
ties incident to this severe bombardment.
I inadvertently omitted to mention the capture of a large
number of pack mules lefl in the Mexican camp.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Z. TAYLOR,
Brevet Brigadier-general, U. S. Army CommandiDg.
[OftDiRS No. 59.]
1. The commanding general congratulates the army under
his command upon the signal success which has crowned its
recent operations against the enemy. The coolness and
steadiness of the troops during the action of the 8th, and the
brilliant impetuosity with which the enemy's position and ar-
tillery were carried on the 9th, have displayed the best
qualities of the American soldier. To every officer and
soldier of his command the general publicly returns his
thanks for the noble manner in which they have sustained
the honor of the service and of the country. While the main
body of the army has been thus actively employed, the gar-
d2
42 GEN. TAYL0R*8 DESPATCHES.
risoD lefl opposite Matamoras has rendered no less distin-
guished service by sustaining a severe cannonade and bom-
bardment of nnany successive days. The army and the
country, while justly rejoicing in this triumph of our arms,
will deplore the loss of many brave ofRcers and men who fell
gallantly in the hour of combat.
2. It being necessary for the commanding general to visit
Point Isabel on public business, Colonel Twiggs will assume
command of the corps of the army near Matamoras, including
the garrison of the field-work. He will occupy the former
lines of the army, making such dispositions for defence and
for the comfort of his command as he may deem advisable.
He will hold himself strictly on the defensive until the return
of the commanding general.
By order of Brigadier-general Taylor.
W. W. J. Bum, Act Adjutant General
Headquarters Army or Occupation, 9
Point Irabel, Texas, May 12, 1846. \
Sir : — I am making a hasty visit to this place, for the pur-
pose of having an interview with Commodore Connor, whose
squadron is now at anchor off the harbor, and arranging with
him a combined movement up the river. I avail myself of
the brief time at my command to report that the main body
of the army is now occupying its former position opposite
Matamoras. The Mexican forces are almost disorganized,
and I shall lose no time in investing Matamoras, and opening
the navigation of the river.
I regret to report that Major Ringgold died the morning of
the 11th inst., of the severe wounds received in the action of
Palo Alto. With the exception of Capt. Paige, whose wound
is dangerous, the other wounded officers are doing well. In
my report of the second engagement, I accidentally omitted
the name of Lieut. Dobbins, Sd infantry, among the officers
slightly wounded, and desire that the omission may be sup-
plied in the despatch itself. I am under the painful necessity
of reporting that Lieut. Blake, topographical engineers, afler
rendering distinguished service in my staff during the afiair
GEM. TAYLOR 8 DESPATCHES. 43
of the 8th inst., accidentally shot himself with a pistol on the
following day, and expired before night.
It has been quite impossible as yet to furnish detailed re-
ports of our engagements with the enemy, or even accurate
returns of the killed and wounded. Our loss is not far from
3 officers and 40 men killed, and 13 officers and 100 men
wounded ; while that of the enemy has in all probability ex-
ceeded 300 killed ; more than 200 have been buried by us
on the two fields of battle.
I have exchanged a sufficient number of prisoners to re-
cover the command of Captain Thornton. The wounded
prisoners have been sent to Matamoras — the wounded officers
on their parole. General La Vega and a few other officers
have been sent to New Orleans, having declined a parole,
and will be reported to Maj. Gen. Gaines. I am not con-
versant with the usages of war in such cases, and beg that
such provision may be made for these prisoners as may be
authorized by law. Our own prisoncpn have been treated
with great kindness by the Mexican officers.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Z. TAYLOR,
Brevet Brigadier-general, U. S. A. Commauding.
The RESULT of these battles, however, was fatal. The
Mexican republic lost all power, either present or future, of
retaining one foot of that vast territorial empire which they
once held east of the Rio Grande. The conquerors were
tempted, in the flush of victory, to carry their arms beyond
that melancholy river ; — to seek for glory in conquests ;
— to find the gratification of dominion in foreign lands ; —
— to indulge the rapacious lust of power ; — to leave fields
fertile in blessings for^ others fertile only in blood ; — and
finally, to make it uncertain whether even the best of Re-
publics can resist the universal tendency of man to build
up Empires — by the destruction of Justice.
44 president's messagi.
CHAPTER III.
Action of CongroHd — Declaration of the Preaident— LegMation.— CSeneral
Scott*8 Viewa of the War.~Hi8 Commenta on the Plan of Campaign.
— Hii Correapondence with Secretary Marcy< — ^The Giounda for bli
Opinkma.— la ordered to remain at Waifaington.
The news of the capture of Captain Thornton's party
was received with great surprise by the nation, and the
government. Notwithstanding all the acts of the United
States and Mexico, both diplomatic and legislative, during
the previous four years, had tended to this and no other
result; and notwithstanding General Taylor had been
ordered to the Rio Grande with four thousand regular
troops, yet neither people nor President seem to have
realized that war was actually near at hand. They appear
to have relied upon some invisible Providence to prevent
a catastrophe, which to a reasonable mind, and especially
to one imbued with the spirit of a statesman, seemed
inevitable.^
The intelligence of hostilities on the Rio Grande, was
therefore received with astonishment, and for a time
occasioned a powerful excitement. Congress was then in
session, and the President immediately sent in an ex-
traordinary Message.^ In this, he declared that the
' Mr. Clay declared in the canvaai of 1844, that the annexation of
Texas waa equiyalent to a war with Mexico, and that war must foUow
' Preaident'a Meaaage, dated the 11th of May, 184d.
prb8ident!s message. 45
Mexican government had '' at last invaded our territory,
and shed the blood of our fellow-citizens on our own soil.^
In the same Message, and in the paragraph immediately
following, he stated that Mr. Slidell was sent to Mexico
with full powers to adjust all the questions in dispute be-
tween the two governments, *' both the questions of the
Texas boundary , and of indemnification to our citizens."
The boundary in dispute was the western boundary of
Texas only, and hence this was a clear admission, that
the territory adjacent was in dispute, and was not our
soil, till the question of boundary was settled.
Congress, however, with less than two days' delibera-
tion, adopted the declaration of the President, and de-
clared that, " by the act of the Republic of Mexico, a
state of war exists between that government and the
United States." At the same time, that body authorized
the President to accept the services of fifty thousand
volunteers, and placed ten millions of dollars at his dis-
posal. The intention was to put an end to the war, by a
vigorous eflfort and decisive victories. The President
declared that m his opinion, '* the immediate appearance
in arms of a large and overpowering force," would be the
best means of producmg peace.^
Just two days before this declaration, the decisive
battle of Resaca de la Palma had been fought, and the
army of Arista pursued beyond the Rio Grande. We are
now to see what plans the government had formed for the
further prosecution of the war.
1
* Tilt tsnt flMit commonly used to expraai thk idea was '< to conquer
a peaee." The original authoiihip of thia phraae iqipean to belohg to the
poet Coleridge^ — See CotUe's Reminiacencea.
46 PLANS FOR THE WAR.
At this time, General Scott, as commander of the armji
was stationed at Washington, engaged in arranging and
superintending the various staff duties of the army. He
would be naturally consulted 6n the plans to be formed,
and the means to execute them. This was the case. Im-
mediately after the act of Congress of the 13lh of May was
passed, he was invited to call upon the President, who in
that interview informed him that it was his determination
to assign him the command of the army in Mexco.^ From
that moment, he was busily engaged in the necessary
arrangements to carry into effect the views and instruc-
tions of the President. He was employed fourteen hours
a day in all those various duties which pertain to the
movements, supplies, equipage, direction, and objects of
tlie army. No one can imagine the magnitude of these
labors, their responsibility or importance, who docs not
reflect, that the geography, climate, military armament,
means of supply, in fine, the whole detail of the physical
and social condition of Mexico, were almost utterly un-
known in the United States, and that information on these
topics had to be obtained by inquiry and study, before
even a general of the army could make prudent military
arrangements. The Rio Grande was assumed by the
government, as the base line of military operations from
the beginning. Yet this river was itself not less than
seven hundred miles from the Mississippi river, separated
by lands so unproductive, and so sparsely populated, as to
be incapable of supporting either man or beast on the
extended scale required by the operations of war. The
' Marcy*8 Letter to the Preeident, publiriied in the PahUo Doemitoate
«f 184&
WAR RECOGNISED BT CONGRESS. 47
Mississippi then became the true and real base of supply
and movement, and New Orleans the great depot for pro-
visions and armament. From this point, General Scott
had to calculate the march and support of an army whose
field embraced Texas and California, the Rocky Moun-
tains and the Sierra Madre ; the cold regions of eternal
snow, and those sunburnt climes where snow was never
known I To prepare the clothing and guard the health
of troops who were to visit regions on the one side swept
over by the frosty air of health, and on the other filled
with the pestilence which walketh in darkness ! To make
these plans and arrangements required skill, sagacity,
labor, and experience. The duties, services, and know-
ledge acquired in his previous life, amply qualified General
Scott for this duty ; and that he performed it well, is now uni-
ye^rsally acknowledged by the people and the government.
Congress had declared that '* war existed" on the 13th
of May. The armies were then in conflict on the Rio
Grande, and it was known that the American force was
much inferior in number, while their base of supply was
seven hundred miles distant. Not a moment was to be
lost. The plan of the campaign must be instantly formed ;
the volunteers must be hurried into the field ; and what
was another and yet greater difficulty, an army larger
than the American Republic had yet raised at one time,
must be supplied in the course of a few weeks, with the
armament, equipment, provisions, and means of transporta-
tion necessary to maintain that army actively in the field.
This was tlie task which now devolved on the executive
officers of the government, and especially upon those of
the military department.
The nlan of the campaign in Mexico for the yeur 1846,
48 PLAN OF THE CAMPAIOIT.
Memi to have been arranged jointly, by consultations be-
tween tlie President, Secretary at War, and General Scott
What share either had in any particular plan, we have
now no means of knowing. The fact of such consulta-
tions is disclosed in the correspondence of the War De-
partment.*
l\vo days only after the declaration of Congress, the
plan of the campaign had been completed — ^the requisi-
tions on the governors of states determined upon — and
General Scott issued to the chief of the General Staff at
Washington, his memoranda relative to transportation.
On his order, the immediate movements of the army
depended. The following extracts are taken from the
" Memoranda."**
'* An urmy of some twenty odd thousand men, reg-
ulars and volunteers, including the troops already in
Texas, is about to be directed against Mexico, in several
columns.
"For the numbers of troops, yet to be sent into
Texas, the rendezvous or points of departure, and the
routes of march thither, each chief of the General Staff
will obtain the information needful to his particular depart-
ment, from the Secretary of War, calls upon the governors
of the several states, and from the Adjutant-General.
" Arms, accoutrements, ammunition, and camp equip-
age, must be thrown in advance upon the several rendez-
vous or points of departure, unless depots or arsenals
' Ap|)rndix to the CongTMNonal Globe, 1845-6, pagw 649-51, Mesagv
of the Prewdrnt, Lettera of Scott and Marcy.
* Public Docuineutm ^Uk Cougrwi, Sd auwion, nmber 119.
INSTRUCTION TO CHIBF8 OF THB STAFF. 49
should be in the routes which may be given to volun-
teers.
** Subsistence will also be thrown in advance upon the
several rendezvous given, and as far as practicable, on
the several routes thence to be given to both regulars
and volunteers. Hard bread and bacon, (side-pieces or
middlings,) are suggested and recommended for marches,
both on account of health and comparative lightness of
transportation. On many of the routes, it is supposed
that beef cattle may be obtained in tolerable abundance.
** With the means of transportation by water and land,
according to the several routes to be given to the troops,
and on land, whether wagons or pack-mules, or both
wheels and packs, the Quartermaster-General will charge
himself at once, and as fast as the necessary data can
be settled or known.
'Tor marches by land, a prcjet for the means of
transportation, by company, battalion, or regiment, ac-
cording to route, is requested, as a general plan. The
means of transportation on and beyond the Rio Grander-
using for the latter purpose those which may accompany
the troops — will require a particular study ; but boats for
transporting suppUes on that river, should be early pro-
vided — assuming the depth of water to a certain heiglit
(up the river) at three or three and a half feet, and to
another distance, higher up, at two and a half feet."
This " Memoranda" immediately set the Staff officers
and the subordinates in motion, and notwithstanding the
government had provided nothing previously for the ex-
traordinary emergencies of war, — ^yet so well skilled
and judicious were the officers of the Staff of the army,
tliat it may be regarded as one of the remarkable fea-
B 4
50 scott'b views of the campaion
tares of the war — that twenty thousand men could be
put in motion, fed, equipped, and marched with so muob
rapidity and effect over thousands of miles, for the most
part of barren territory^ These " Memoranda" of Scott
were dated the 15th of May, and on the 1st of August,
all the foot regiments of the volunteer army had been
mustered inlo service, marched several thousand miles,
and assembled on the Rio Grande.^
The views of General Scott at this time, as to the num-
ber of the army, and the service it was required to perform,
in order to conquer a peace, were fully expressed in his
letter to Secretary Marcy, dated the 21st of May.^ In
that document he says, and it was admitted by the Presi-
dent, that a *' special army of some thirty thousand regulars
and twelve montlis' volunteers," would be necessary to
march against Mexico;^ and that such an army (espe-
cially the horse regiments) could not be assembled and
ready for service much before the 1st of September;
that in the mean time, (from June to September,) the
rainy season occurred, and would unfit the horses in
that country for active service ; and that finally, to pro-
* l^e eztenmve correqiondeuce of the Quartermaater-Genentl's depart-
ment proves, that much was due to the energies of General Jeeup,
Colonels Hunt and Cross, Majors Whiting and Tompkins, and other officers
of the service.
* Public Document 119, 2d Session of 99th Congress ; Taylor's Letter
oftheSOth July, 1846.
* Appendix to Congressional Globe, 1845-6, page 650.
* It will be observed here, that the thirty tkou$and effective men re-
quired by Scott, were never in service at one time during the campaign
of 1846. The re^lars were less than 7000, and the twenty-four regi-
ments of volunteers made but 18,000— in all 25,000.
Scott's views of thb campaign. 51
duce a peace by the operations of war, — regular, in-
^Bssant, forward movements were necessary. Subse-
quent events proved, that each and all these positions
were strictly correct. The army was not ready for a
inarch against Mexico till the first of September; and
because it was not kept up to ihe full amount of effective
men required, (for it was rapidly diminished by sick-
ness,) it could not make iticessant, forward movements,
and thus it failed of obtaining those ends, of which its
energy and victories were fully worthy. In no part of
the war with Mexico, was more sagacity, correct infor-
mation, and sound judgment exhibited, than in the cor-
respondence of General Scott with the War Department,
and the chiefs of the army, in May and June, 1846.
In the mean time, an unpleasant controversy, or rather
misunderstanding occurred between General Scott, Sec-
retary Marcy, and President Polk. The efiect of this
misunderstanding, was to deprive the army for a time,
of the experience and services of General Scott in the
field, and throw a most undeserved ridicule on his name,
— as disgraceful to those who, for political purposes,
were engaged in its dissemination, as it was entirely
foreign to any part of the public business, or any con-
duct of its distinguished subject.
On the 20th of May, Mr. Dix, a senator from the
state of New York, and an active friend of the Presi-
dent, had advocated a bill before the Senate, which pro-
posed to authorize the appointment of two additional
major-generals, giving the President power also to assign
them their command and relative rank. The efiect of
this measure, if adopted, would give the President the
power of appointing, by law, some new or junior, or
52 Scott's lettkr5.
merely political general, over the head of Scott. That
this proposition, coming from the political friends of the
President, should excite the sensibilities of Scott, with
the idea that he was to be supplanted in the command
of the army, was most natural. That such an idea was
not unjust to the President or his friends in Congress,
was sufficiently shown by subsequent events, when the
attempt was openly made and nearly succeedea,^ to ap-
point a lieutenant-general to the conunand of the Ameri-
can army.
About the same time — although but one week after
Congress had declared that "war existed," — Scott was in-
formed by the Secretary of War, that much impatience
was already felt^ that he had not placed himself on the
route to the Rio Grande.' It was under these circum-
stances, which candor will admit, were well calculated
to irritate a sensitive mind — that Scott, in one of his com-
munications to the Secretary of War, wrote the following
passage :
" Not an advantageous step can oe taken in a forward
march, without the confidence that all is well behind. If
insecure in that quarter, no general can put his whole
heart and mind into the work to be done in front. I am
therefore not a little alarmed, nay, crippled in my ener-
gies, by the knowledge of the impatience in question, and
I beg to say I fear no other danger.
" My intentions have been, after making all preliminary
arrangements here, to pass down the Ohio and the Mis-
sissippi, to see, or to assure myself by correspondence.
* Fhweedhigi of the 9d Senioii of the 9Mi CoogveaL
* Soott'i Letter to Mmy, May 9Ut, 1848.
scott's letters. 53
that the volunteers, on whom we are mostly to rely in the
prosecution of the existing war, are rapidly assembling
for the service ; to learn the probable time of their readi-
nefs to advance upon Mexico; to ascertjun if thiir sup-
plies of every kind are in place, or are likely to be in
place in sufficient time ; to hasten one and the other ; to
harmonize the movements of volunteers, and to modify
their routes, (if necessary,) so that all, or at least a suffi-
cient number, shall arrive at the indicated points on the
Mexican frontier at the best periods, and as far as practi-
cable about the same time. All that I have but sketched^
I deem to be not only useful to success, but indispensa-
ble. As a soldier I make this assertion, without the fear
of contradiction from any honest and candid soldier.
*' Against the ad captandum condemnation of all other
persons, whoever may be designated for the high com-
mand in question, there can b^e no reliance, in his absence,
other than the active, candid, and steady support of his
government. If I cannot have that sure basis to rest
upon, it will be infinitely better for the country,. (not to
speak of my personal security,) that some other command-
er of the new army against Mexico should be selected.
No matter who he may be, he shall at least be judged and
supported by me, in this office and everywhere else, as T
would desire, if personally in that command, to be judged
myself and supported.
" My expUcit meaning is, that I do not desire to place
myself in the most perilous of all positions — a fire upon
my rear from Washington^ and a fire in front from the
Mexicans,^
' Scott'i Letter, 31rt of May, 1846^— Appendix to the Congreflnooal
Globe, p. 650.
■2
M 8C0TT*8 LSTTKR8.
In a reply to this communication, Mr. Marcy, Secretary
of War, in a letter of the 25th of May,^ assumed that this
passage referred to the President only, said that the coun-
try would feel impatient if the volunteers were to remain
inactive on the Rio Grande till the 1st of September, and
finally concluded by informing Scott that his services
would be confined to the city of Washington, and to the
preparations for the vigorous prosecution of hostilities
against Mexico.'
The letter of Marcy, dated May 25th, General Scott
did not receive till the close of the day, and it was imme-
diately replied to. In his answer, Scott denied that he
intended to charge either the President or Secretary with
any unworthy motives or indirect designs. He acknow-
ledged the courtesy and kindness of both, but explained
that he meant other persons in high quarters, who might
be willing enough either to misrepresent him to the Pres-
ident, or impair his public influence. He also asked to
be ordered to the army on " the following, or any other
day the President might designate.**
In the commencement of his reply to Mr. Marcy, Scott
had used an expression which is now memorable as an
example of the ease with which the public mind may be
abused, of the malignity with which partisans pursue
' Appendix to the Congremoiial Globe, 651.
* The sofficient answer to thif impatienee, and the erode ideas of war
formed by Mr. Secretary Marcy, is contained in the fict— that the ad-
vance of the army, under Genera] Worth, did not leave the valley of the
Rio Grande till the 20th of Aogost, and General Taylor coold not leave
Camargo till the 5th of September. From May till September nothing
was done, as Scott had anticipated, bat p rtpart for the eooiing cam-
paign.
FINAL RESULT.
A5
their objects, and of the final triumph of true greatness
over all the malice and the intrigues of jealous or hostile
politicians.
The expression was caught up/ and repeated, and re-
turned, in squibs and witticisms, by hostile newspapers
and by doubtful friends, till, for a time, the fame of the
Hero of Niagara, alike dear to his country and to martial
renown, seemed obscured in the mists of folly and of
prejudice. Even the justice of the country seemed about
to depart, and leave to a ribald ridicule the pen of history
and the decrees of government.
But such an ingratitude and so gross a malice could
not endure. The same administration, which had thus
coolly confined Scott to Washington, was compelled, in
its necessities, to demand his services. He hurried to
the Gulf of Mexico, and, in the splendid siege of Vera
Cruz — ^the storm of Cerro Gordo — and the well-ordered
and successful march to the city of the Montezumas —
brushed away and obliterated forever the memory of the
recent past, and silenced the voice of ridicule in the shouts
of applause. The once celebrated phrase now remains
only as a monument to the folly of those who used it to
pervert the sense and abuse the justice of the people. Tt
points a moral, if it does not adorn a tale.
66
H0TEMXMT8 OF THB ABMT.
CHAPTER IV.
Campaign on the Rio Grande continned. — Moremant of the Anny^
March to Monterey. — Battle of Monterey* — Armifltiee. — Mardi to Sal-
tillo. — Wool'a Corpa. — ^Thmpico — Occupation of Victoria. — Cooohisoo
of the Campaign. — General Tayior*s Deapatche& — Reaalt&
From the period at which the American army occupied
Metamoras, after the battle of Resaca de la Palma, both
the general government at home, and the officers of the
army on the Rio Grande, were busied with preparations
for an advance into the interior of Mexico. The Rio
Grande was assumed as the military base-line of opera-
tions, although the real base was necessarily the Missis-
sippi. Quartermasters and Commissariat Departments
became at once very active :^ wagons, horses, provisions,
and supplies of all sorts were to be found and purchased
chiefly in the valley of the Ohio ; while military equip-
ments were to be furnished from the Atlantic arsenals.
More than three months were consumed in these prepa-
rations. In the mean time, the Mexican villages of
Reinosa, Comargo, Mier, and Revilla surrendered, and
were occupied. Comargo, a town about one hundred and
eighty miles above the moutii of the Rio Grande, was the
point selected as the depot of supplies. Here the various
' It is dae to General JeaBup-— Quartermaater-general — to aay, that the
official correspondence provea that he was most aandaooa, indnatriooa, and
■uccewfui in the performance of th« wy iMpoMUi dntiM of hit
— '— - •««,•
Taylor's force. 67
divisions which were to compose the particular army of
General Taylor were gradually concentrated. The entire
army of General Taylor consisted of about nine thousand
men* A small portion was as.«igne(l to ganisons, while the
main body, numbering six thousand six hundred, were des-
tined for the march to Monterey.^ On the 20th of August
General Worth began his march for Monterey, the capital
of New Leon ; and on the 5th of September, the general-
in-chief left Comargo, leaving that town garrisoned by
about two thousand men. Worth reached Ceralvo — about
' The army was divided into three divisions, whose component piuti
were as foUows, — as determined by General Taylor's order of September
3d, 1846, and variations subeequently made.
1st Division — Brigadier-general Twiggs.
3d Dragoons, (Captain May,) 4 companies . . 250 meik
Ridgeley's and Webster's Batteries .... 110 **
1st, 3d, and 4th Regiments of Infantry, and Bragg*s Battery 1,320 ««
Baltimore Battalion . . 400 •«
Total . • 2,080
2d Division — Brigadier-general Worth.
Doncan's and Taylor's Batteries 100 man.
Sth, 7th, and 8th Regiments of Infantry . • . 1»500 **
Blanchard*s Louisiana Volonteeis . . .- . 80 <*
Te«. Range,js-2 companies ^ -
Total . . 1,780
3d Division, (Volonteers,) Major-general BnUer.
Ist Ohio Regiment, (Col. Mitchell) 540 men
1st Kentucky, (Col. Ormsby) 540 «
lit Tennessee, (Col. Campbell) 540 *«
MissisBippi Regiment, (Col. Davis) 690 "
Tens Regiment, (Col Hays) 500 "
Total . 3,8]0
Tiia or th* aimy (in all) 6,670 efloctives.
I
58 TAYLOR ADVANCES TO MONTEREY.
seventy miles — on the 25th of August, and at that point
sent out reconnoitring parties, who discovered strong
bodies of the enemy in front. Being reinforced, he ad-
vanced to the village of Marin, where the entire army
was in a few days concentrated under the command of
General Taylor.
Th**, city of Monterey is situated in the valley of the
San Juan ; and in the rear, and around it, rise the moun-
tain-ridges of the Sierra Madre. In the rear of the city,
and under the ridges of hills, runs the river San Juan.
On the east, or on tne left of the road approaching from
Marin, the river makes a turn, so as nearly to cover that
flank.- The road to Cardereita thence crosses the river.
On the opposite side — the right, as ihe army approached
—lay the road to Saltillo, up the valley of San Juan. In
front, the road from Ceralvo and Marin entered the town.
On the heights, in rear of the town and beyond the river,
works were erected which commanded 4he valley and the
approaches from the north. Above the Saltillo road was
a height upon which was the Bishop's Palace, and near it
otlier heights, all fortified. In front of the city was the
Cathedral Fort, or citadel, which was regularly fortified,
and about two thousand yards in front and below the
Bishop's Palace. The opposite side of the city, to the
left, as the Americans approached, were forts also erected,
and there were barricades in the streets of the city.
Both the natural and the artificial defences of Monterey
sbem to have been very strong. Notwithstanding this,
neither the extant of the defences nor the garrison withm
them seem to have been known to the American army
previous to its arrival in front of the city.
On the 25th of August, General Taylor writes to tho
u
RBACHB8 WALNUT SPRINGS. 59
War Department* that he had intelligence from Monterey,
by a confidential messenger, who said that there were
" at Monterey not more than 2000 or 2500 regular troops,
the remnant of those who fled from Metamoras, and a
considerable number of the militia of the country gathered
together, many of them forcibly. Some attempts had
been made to fortify the city by the erection of batteries
which command the approaches. He heard of no rein-
forcements in rear." On the 17th of September, from the
camp near Morin, General Taylor writes to the War De-
partment — " It is even doubtful whether Ampudia will
attempt to hold Monterey. A few days will now deter-
mine. His regular force is small — say 3000 — eked out
perhaps to 6000 by volunteers, many of them forced.'"
These statements show that the military information
of the army, as derived from scouts, spies, out-parties,
and correspondents, was very scant. The army, however,
pressed forward, and on the 19th of September arrived at
Walnut Springs, three miles from Monterey, having met
with no more serious resistance than that of skirmishing
parties of Mexican cavalry.
Monterey was then under the command of General
Pedro Ampudia, and the garrison under his command
consisted of about seven thousand regular troops, and two
or three thousand irregulars. Notwithstanding this strong
garrison, superior in numbers to the American army.
General Taylor thought it possible to carry the place by
8torm, with the bayonet and the artillery. On the even-
ing of the 19th a reconnaissance of the works in the direc-
* Doenment 119 of the 29th CongreM, 2d Semon, pa^re 130.
• Dooimieiit 119, page 139, 29th Congraii, 2d SMnon
60 BATTLE OF MONTEREY.
tion of the Saltillo road was ordered, and this important
enterprise was ably executed by Major Mansfield of the
engineer corps. A reconnaissance was also made on the
east side of the town.
In the afternoon of the 20th of September, General
Worth, with his division, was ordered to make a detour
to the right — turn the hill of the Bishop's Palace — ^take a
position on the Saltillo road — and, if practicable,, carry
the enemy's works in that quarter. This movement was
executed during the evening, and the troops remained
upon their arms, just beyond the range of the enemy's
shoL During the night two 24-pound er howitzers and a
ten-inch mortar were placed in battery against the citadel.
In rear o( this battery was General Butler's Division.
On the morning of the 21st the main battle came on.
Twiggs' and Butler's Divisions, supported by the Light
Artillery, were both ordered forward ; May's Dragoons,
and Wood's Texan Cavalry, were detached to the right, to
the support of General Worth. A coliusn of six hundred
and fifty men, with Bragg's Artillery, was ordered to the
left, to attack the lower part of the town. The point of
attack^as designated by Major Mansfield, who accompa-
nied the party in its advance. The front defence here
was a redoubt, into the rear of which, in spite of its fire,
the column rapidly moved, and commenced its assault on
tlie town. Here it was opposed by intrenched streets
and barricaded houses. On one of these the company
of Captain Backus succeeded in getting, and fired
upon the redoubt. Garland's force, however, were with-
drawn. It was then that General Taylor ordered up the
4th Infantry, and the Volunteer regiments from Ohio,
TennesseOi and Mississippi, commanded by Colonels
1 •
• • •
• - " •
:-. *.
..••V'
• •
'.•••
• •,
• . •
• •• •
• • ••
BATTLB OF MONTEREY. 61
Mitchell, Campbell, and Davis. The two last regiments,
with three companies of the 4th regiment, advanced'
against the redoubt. The last companies being in
front were received with a deadly fire, which killed or
disabled one-third of the men, and they were compelled
to retire. The brigade of General Quitman (Tennessee
and Mississippi) pushed on, and with the aid of Captain
Backus's company (on the roof of a house) captured the
fort, with its cannon and ammunition.
■
In the mean while the Ohio regiment, with General
Butler and Colonel Mitchell, entered the town to the right,
and advanced against the second battery, but the fire was
80 sev^e that the regiment was withdrawn; General
Butler, who had advanced with it, being wounded. The
guns of the first battery were turned upon the second,
and Colonel Garland was ag^in ordered forward with an-
other column. They were compelled to pass several
streets trenched and barricaded, and after another severe
contest retired in good order. Up to this time, it is ob-
vious, no important success had been obtained against the
lower town. The Mexican cavalry had also made several
charges, but always unsuccessfully. On the same day
(the 21 St) Worth's Division had advanced to the right,
defeated the enemy, and carried several fortified heights.
At night General Taylor ordered a large part of Twiggs*
and Butler's Divisions back to Walnut Springs — a portion
remaining to guard the battery in the ravine, while Gar-
land's command held the captured redoubt on the enemy's
extreme right/ * ■ ■ ■■- ■ " ■ — ■ * *' ^-" - -^
At dawn of the 22d, Worth and his Division, which had
bivouacked on the Saltillo road, reconunenced the ad-
62 SURRBNOKR OF THE CITY.
vance. The height above the Bishop's Palace was
stormed and taken ; when the Palace and the guns of
both were turned upon the enemy below.
The guns of the Citadel continued, during this day, to
fire upon the American positions; but /General Taylor
made no important movement in front. / The turning of
the enemy's position by Worth, and me capture of the
Bishop's Palace, gave a new face to affairs. This was
the key to Monterey, and General Ampudia concentrated
his troops in the heart of the city. /General Taylor, on
the morning of the 23d, found nearly all the works in the
lower part of the city abandoned, ^e immediately or-
dered General Quitman to enter the' place ; but here a
new resistance was made. The hpuses were fortified,
and our troops actually dug through from house to house !
On the upper side of the city, Wortji's Division had also
gained a lodgment. The firing continued during the 23d
— the Americans having possession bf the greater part of
the city, and the Mexicans confined, in their defence,
chiefly to the Citadel and Plaza. I That evening (at 9
p. M.) General Ampudia sent in piopositions to General
Taylor wiiich, after some negotiatic n, resulted in the sur-
render and evacuation of Monterey
the capitulation was, that the Mexi
tire beyond a line formed by the Pass of Rinconada, the
city of Linares, and San Fernando de Prezas ; and that
the forces of the United States would not advance beyond
that line before the expiration of eight weeks, or until the
orders or instructions of the respective governments should
be received.
As this armistice has been the subject of much com-
ment, we have thought b^st to insert it in full.
The main part of
'can troops should re-
ARTICLES OF CAPITULATION. 63
The following are the articles of capitulation :
Article I. As the legitimate result of the operations before
this place, and the present position of the contending armies,
it is agreed that the city, the fortifications, cannon, the muni-
tions of war, and all other public property, with the under-
mentioned exceptions, be surrendered to the commanding gen-
eral of the United States forces now at Monterey.
Art. II. That the Mexican forces be allowed to retain the
following arms, to wit : the commissioned ofRcers their side-
arms, the infantry their arms and accoutrements, the cavalry
their arms and accoutrements, the artillery one field battery,
not to exceed six pieces, with twenty-one rounds of ammuni-
tion.
Art. III. That the Mexican armed forces retire, within
seven days from this date, beyond the line formed by the pass
of the Rinconada, the city of Linares, and San Fernando de
Presas.
Art. IV. That the citadel of Monterey be evacuated by
the Mexican, and occupied by the American forces, to-mor-
row morning at ten o'clock.
Art. V. To avoid collisions, and for mutual convenience,
that the troops of the United States will not occupy the city
until the Mexican forces have withdrawn, except for hospital
and storage purposes.
Art. VI. That the forces of the United States will not ad^
Vance beyond the line specified in the 2d [3d] article before
the expiration of eight weeks, or until the orders or instruc-
tions of the respective governments can be received.
Art. VII. That the public property to be delivered shall
be turned over and received by officers appointed by the
commanding generals of the two armies.
Art. VIII. That all doubts as to the meaning of any of
the preceding articles shall be solved by an equitable con-
struction, and on principles of liberality to the retiring army.
64 ARMISTICE DISAPPROYBD.
Art. IX. That the Mexican flog, when struck at the cita-
del, may be saluted by its own battery.
Done at Monterey, Sept. 24, 1846.
W. J. Worth,
Brigadier-genen] U. S. A.
S. PiNKNBT HrNDBRSON,
Miyor-fsnenl oommandiiig the Texan Toliuiteen.
Jeffrrson Davis,
Col. Mienmppi riflemen.
Manuel M. Llano,
Ortega,
T. Requena,
Pedro Ampudia.
Approved :
Z. TAYLOR,
Majoikgeneral, U. 8. A Commanding.
The Mexicans marched out with their arms, and the
terms were unusually favorable to them. For this con-
cession there were strong reasons. A change of govern-
ment had just taken place in Mexico, believed to be
favorable to peace, and to have reduced the citadel of
Monterey would have cost the lives of many men. Be-
sides all this, the American army had but a short supply
of provisions, and were one hundred and eighty miles dis-
tant from, their depot. The American loss in this battle
was (killed and wounded) four hundred and eighty-eight,^
a large portion of whom fell in the attacks of the 2 1st on
the lower town.
The War Department did not choose to continue the
armistice ; but, on the 13th of October, directed General
' One huudred and twenty killed, and three hundred and nxty-eigfal
wounded.
\\
TAYLOR b REASONS tOR THE ARMISTICE. ()5
Taylor to give notice that the armistice should cease, and
that each party should be at liberty to resume hostilities.
In communicating this notice to General Santa Anna, then
in command of the Mexican army, General Taylor took
occasion to suggest the idea of an honorable peace. To
this the Mexican chief replied, — "You should banish
every idea of peace while a single North American, in
armSf treads upon the territory of this republic."^
The following are General Taylor's reasons for the
armistice, given in a letter to the Secretary of War :
"In reply to so much of the communication of the
Secretary of War, dated October 1 3lh, as relates to the
reasons which induced the convention resulting in the
capitulation of Monterey, I have the honor to submit the
following remarks :
" The convention presents two distinct points. First,
the permission granted the Mexican army to retire with
their arms, &c. Secondly, the temporary cessation of
hostilities for the term of eight weeks. I shall remark on
these in order.
" The force with which I marched on Monterey was
limited by causes beyond my control to about six thou-
sand men. With this force, as every military man must
admit, who has seen the ground, it was entirely impossible
to invest Monterey so closely as to prevent the escape of
the garrison. Although the main communication with the
interior was in our possession, yet one route was open to
the Mexicans throughout the operations, and could not be
closed, as were also other minor tracks and passes through
the mountains. Had we, therefore, insisted on more
' Santa Anna'f letter to General Taylor, Norember, 1846.
f2 5
66 tayloe'8 reasons foe the armistice.
rigorous terms than those granted, the result would have
been the escape of the body of the Mexican force, with the
destruction of its artillery and magazines, our only advantage
being ther capture of a few prisoners of war, at the ex-
pense of valuable lives and much damage to the city.
The consideration of humanity was present to my mind
during the conference which led to the convention, and
outweighed in my judgment the doubtful advantages to be
gained by a resumption of the attack upon the town.
This conclusion has been fully confirmed by an inspec-
tion of the enemy's position and means since the surrender.
It was discovered that his principal magazine, containing
an immense amount of powder, was in tlie cathedral,
completely exposed to our shells from two directions.
The explosion of this mass of powder, which must have
ultimately resulted from a continuance of the bombard-
ment, would have been infinitely disastrous, involving the
destruction not only of Mexican troops, but of non-com-
batants and even our own people, had we pressed the
attack.
''In regard to the temporary cessation of hostilities, the
fact that we are not at this moment, within eleven days
of the termination of the period fixed by the convention,
prepared to move forward in force, is a sufficient explana-
tion of the military reasons which dictated this suspension
of arms. It paralyzed the enemy during a period when,
from the want of necessary means, we could not possibly
move. I desire distinctly to state, and to call the attention
of the authorities to the fact, that, with all diligence in
breaking mules and setting up wagons, the first wagons in
addition to our original train from Corpus Christi, (and
but one hundred and twenty-five in number,) reached my
Taylor's reasons for the armistice. 67
headquarters on the same day with the secretary's com-
munication of October 13th, viz. the 2d inst. At the
date of the surrender of Monterey, our force had not
more than ten days' rations, and even now, with all
our endeavors, we have not more than twenty-five. The
task of fighting and beating the enemy is among
The least difficult that we encounter — the great
question of supplies necessarily controls all the operations
in a country like this. At the date of the convention, I
could not of course have foreseen that the Department
would direct an important detachment from my command
without consulting me, or without waiting the result of
the main operation under my orders.
** I have touched the prominent military points involved
in the convention of Monterey. There were other con-
siderations which weighed with the commissioners in
framing and with myself in approving the articles of the
convention. In the conference with General Ampudia, I
was distinctly told by him that he had invited it to spare
the further effusion of blood, and because General Santa
Anna had declared himself favorable to peace. I knew
that our government had made propositions to that of
Mexico to negotiate, and I deemed that the change of
government in that country since my last instructions,
fully warranted me in entertaining considerations of policy.
My grand motive in moving forward with very limited
supplies had been to increase the inducements of the
Mexican. government to negotiate for peace. Whatever
may be the actual views or disposition of the Mexican
rulers or of General Santa Anna, it is not unknown to the
government that I had the very best reason for believing
the statement of General Ampudia' to be true. It was my
68 Taylor's official dbspatchbs.
opinion at the time of the convention, and it has not been
changed, that the liberal treatment of the Mexican army
and the suspension of arms, would exert none but a favor-
able influence in our behalf.
'* The result of the entire operation has been to throw
the Mexican army back more than three hundred miles to
the city of San Luis Potosi, and to open the country to us
as far as we choose to penetrate it up to the same point.
'* It has been my purpose in this communication, not so
much to defend the convention from the censure which I
deeply regret to find implied in the secretary's letter, as to
show that it was not adopted without cogent reasons,
most of which occur of themselves to the minds of all
who are acquainted with the condition of things hero.
To that end I beg that it may be laid before the General-
in-chief and Secretary of War."
We subjoin the official report of General Taylor :
Hkadquartku, Armt of Oocufation, )
Cunp before Monterey, Sept 23, 1846. {
Sir : — ^I have the honor to report that the troops under my
command, including the mounted volunteers from Texas,
marched from Marin on the 18th, and encamped before Mon-
terey on the 19th inst. It was immediately discovered that
the enemy occupied the town in force, and had added greatly
to its strength by fortifying the approaches and commanding
heights. A close reconnoissance was made the same evening
by the officers of engineers and topographical engineers on
both flanks of the town, and it was determined, from the in-
formation procured, to occupy the Saltillo road in the rear of
the town, carrying, if practicable, the several fortified emi-
nences in that direction. The 2d division of regular troops
and a portion of Col. Hays' regiment of mounted volunteers
.^ -. *^«r-*fj*.
Taylor's official despatchbi. 69
was accordingly detached under Brig. General Worth on this
service, at noon on the 20th. A 10-inch mortar and two
24- pounder howitzers were placed in battery during the
night, to play upon the citadel and town. At 7 o'cloc!c these
guns opened and continued a deliberate fire, which was re-
turned. To create a still farther diversion in favor of Gren.
Worth's movement, the remainder of the force, except a camp
guard, was displayed around the centre and. left of the town.
The infantry and one battery of the 1st division made a strong
demonstration on the left, and soon became so closely engaged
that I moved forward the volunteer division under Major-
general Butler to its support, leaving one battalion (1st Ken-
tucky) to cover the mortar battery. A close contest then
oisued, which resulted in the capture of one strong battery
of four guns, which with some adjacent defences our troops
now occupy. A garrison was left to hold this position, and
the remainder of the force returned to camp.
In the mean time Greneral Worth had engaged the enemy
early in the morning, and defeated him with considerable
loss. In the course of the day two of the batteries in rear of
the town were carried by storming parties of the 2d division,
and a third was carried this morning at dawn of day. — The
Bishop's Palace occupied the only remaining height in rear of
the town, and is completely commanded by the works already
carried. Gen. Worth's division occupies the Saltillo road,
and cuts off all succor or support from the interior. I must
reserve a more minute report of the important operations of
yesterday, until those of the different commanders are render-
ed, and also until a topographical sketch of the country can
be prepared.
I regret to report that our successes have not been obtain-
ed without severe loss, to be attributed in a good measure to
the ardor of the troops in pressing forward. No returns of
killed and wounded have yet been received, nor is it known
70 Taylor's official dbspatchbi.
what corps of Gren. Worth's division have suffered most. In
the other portion of the army, the Ist, 3d, and 4th regiments
of infantry, and regiment of Tennessee volunteers, have sus-
tained the greatest loss. The following is believed to be an
accurate list of the officers killed and wounded :
Killed. — 2d infantry — Brevet 1st Lieutenant J. S. Woods,
(serving with 1st infantry.) 3d infantry — Capt. L. N. Morris ;
Capt. G. P. Field ; Brevet Major P. F. Barbour ; 1st Lieut,
and Adjutant D. S. Irwin ; 2d Lieut. R. Hazlitt. 4th infantry
— 1st Lieut, and Adjutant C. Hoskins. 8th infantry— Cap-
tain McKavett. Maryland and Washington battalion volun-
teers— Lieut. Col. W. H. Watson.
VoLUifTEER Division. — Ohio regiment — Ist Lieut. M. Hett.
Tennessee regiment — Captain W. B. Allen ; S. M. Putnam.
WouNDBD. — Corps of Engineers— Brevet Major J. K. T.
Mansfield, slightly. Corps of Topographical Engineers —
Capt. W. G. Williams, (in hands of the enemy.) 1st infan-
try — Brevet Major J. L. Abercrombie, slightly ; Capt. J. H.
Lamotte, severely ; 1st Lieut. J. C. Terrett, (in hands of the
enemy;) 2d Lieut. R. Dil worth, severely. 3d infantry —
Major W. W. Lear, severely ; Capt. H. Bainbridge, slightly.
5th infantry — Ist Lieut. R. H. Graham, severely. 5th
infantry — 1st Lieut. N. B. Rossell, slightly. 7th infantry —
2d Lieut. J. H. Potter, severely. 8th infantry — ^2d Lieut.
George Wainwri^ht, severely.
Volunteer Division. — Greneral Staff— Major-general W.
O. Butler, slightly. Ohio regiment — Colonel A. M. Mitchell,
slightly; Captain James George, slightly; 1st Lieut, and
Adjutant A. W. Armstrong, very severely ; 1st Lieut. N.
Niles, severely ; 1st Lieut. L. Motter, slightly. Mississippi
regiment — Lieut. Col. A. M. MoClung, severely; Captain
R. N. Downing, slightly ; Isi Lieut. H. F. Cook, slightly ;
8d Lieutenant R. K. Arthur, do.
\\
Taylor's official despatches. 71
Division of Texas Mounted Volunteers. — 1st regimeut
— Capt. R. A. Gillespie, mortally.
I need hardly add, that the conduct of our troops, both
regulars and volunteers, throughout the operations, has been
every thing that could be desired. The part which each
corps contributed to the successes of the day will appear more
fully in future reports. To Major-generals Butler and Hen-
derson, and Brigadier-generals Twiggs and Worth, command.
ing divisions, I must express my obligations for the efficient
support which they have rendered — particularly so to Brig,
adier.general Worth, whose services, from his detached posi-
tion, have been most conspicuous.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Z. TAYLOR,
Major-general, U. S. A. Commanding.
HKADQDAaTBKB, ArMT OF OCCUPATION, >
Camp before Monterey, Sept 23, 1846. S
SiE : — I have the gratification to report that the Bishop's
Palace was gallantly carried yesterday by the troops of the 2d
division. In the course of the night the batteries below the town
were, with one exception, abandoned by the enemy, and this
rooming were occupied by our troops. To-day the 8d infan-
try with the field artillery of the 1st division, the Mississippi
and Tennessee regiments, and the 2d regiment of Texas rifle-
men, (dismounted), have been warmly engaged with the
enemy in the town, and have driven him with considerable
loss to the plaza and its vicinity, which is yet strongly occu-
pied. A portion of the 2d division has also advanced into the
town on the right, and holds a position there. The enemy
still maintains himself in the plaza and citadel^ and seems
determined to make a stubborn resistance.
I am particularly gratified to report that our successes of
yesterday and to-day, though disastrous to the enemy, have
been aohieved whboat material loss.
/
72 TAYLOE's official PE8PATCUBi.
I cannot speak in too high teims of the gallantry and per-
severance of our troops throughout the arduous operationB of
the last three days.
I axn^ sir, very respectfully, your obodient servant,
Z. TAYLOR,
Major-general, U. S. A. CommandiiiK.
HsADaUARTKU, AkMY OF OoOUPATIOlf,
Camp before Mooterey, Sept 25, 184&
!
Sib : — At noon on the 23d inst., while our troops were
closely engaged in the lower part of the city, as reported in
my last despatch, I received by a flag a communication from
the governor of the state of New Leon, which is herewith
enclosed, (No 1.) To this communication, I deemed it my
duty to return an answer declining to allow the inhabitants to
leave the city. By eleven o'clock, p. m. the 2d division,
which had entered the town from the direction of the Bishop's
Palace, had advanced within one square of the principal
plaza, and occupied the city up to that point. The mortar
had, in the mean time, been placed in battery in the cemetery,
within good range of the heart of the town, and was served
throughout the night with good effect.
Early in the morning of the 24th I received a flag from
the town, bearing a communication from Gen. Ampudia,
which I enclose, (No. 2,) and to which \ returned the answer,
(No. 3.) I also arranged with the bearer of the flag a cessa-
tion of fire until 12 o'clock, which hour I appointed to receive
the final answer of Gen. Ampudia at Gen. Worth's head-
quaHer^ Before the appointed time, however. Gen. Ampudia
had signified to Gen. Worth his desire for a personal inter-
view with me, for the purpose of making some definite
arrangement. An interview was accordingly appointed for
one o'clock, and resulted in the naming of a commission to
draw up articles of agreement regulating the withdrawal of
the Mexican forces and a temporary cessation of hostilities.
\\
Taylor's official despatchss. 73
The oommissioners named by the Mexican generaUin-chief
were Generals Ortega and Requena, and Don Manuel M.
Llano, Grovemor of New Leon. Those named, on the Ameri-
can side were Gen. Worth, Gen. Henderson, governor of
Texas, and Colonel Davis, of the Mississippi volunteers. The
commission finally settled upon the articles, of which I enclose
a copy, (No 4,) the duplicates of which (in Spanish and
English) have been duly signed. Agreeably to the pro vis-
ions of the 4th article, our troops have this morning occupied
the citadel.
It will be .seen that the terms granted the Mexican garrison
are less rigorous than those first imposed. The gallant de-
fence of the town, and the fact of a recent change of govern-
ment in Mexico, believed to be favorable to the interests of
peace, induced me to concur with the commission in these
terms, which will, I trust, receive the approval of the govern-
ment. The latter consideration also prompted the convention
for a temporary cessation of hostilities. Though scarcely
warranted by my instructions, yet the change of affairs since
those instructions were issued seemed to warrant this course.
I beg to be advised, as early as practicable, whether I have
met the views of the government in these particulars.
I regret to report that Capt. Williams, Topographical
Engineers, and Lieut. Terrett, 1st infantry, have died of the
wounds received in the engagement of the 21st. — Capt. Gat-
lin, 7th infantry, was wounded (not badly) on the 23d.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant.
Z, TAYLOR,
Major-general, U. S. A. Commanding.
In the mean time, the army had been transporting its
supplies, opening its communications, and enjoying the
fine fruits and climate of Monterey. November had ar-
riyed, and yet General Taylor had not received a single
Q
74 RKFLECTIONj ON THB CAMPAIOH.
wagon in addition to lliose with which he had left Corpus
Christi.^ On the 2d of Noyember a number arriyed, and
on the 8th a general order announced that Saltillo, the
capital of the State of Coahuila, would be occupied by the
United States troops. On the 12th, the division under
General Worth took up the line of march for that point,
and in a few days Saltillo was garrisoned by Wortli's
corps. In the mean time, a column under General Wool,
which had been originally intended to occupy Chihuahua,
changed its direction, by order of General Taylor, and
advanced to the town of Parras ; thence it soon after pro-
ceeded to join General Worth at Saltillo. At this time,
the government having determined to occupy Victoria,
the capital of the Province of Tamaulipas, a division of
volunteers under General Patterson was moved from the.
lower Rio Grande in that direction ; and the brigade of
General Quitman, with a field battery from General
Taylor's army, marched on the same place, and occupied
it (Victoria) on the 29th of December without much op-
position. Tampico was captured by Commodore Perry,
and garrisoned by the land forces.
The campaign of the Rio Grande was now brought
substantially to a close. It commenced in March, 1846,
by the march of General Taylor from Corpus Christi
over the disputed territory, (between the Nueces and the
Rio Grande ;) and terminated in December with the
military occupation of the Provinces of New Mexico,
New Leon, Coahuila, and Tamaulipas, in the Mexican
republic. In this march of our armies, and in the
battles they fought, the officers and soldiers of the United
^ General Taylor's letter of November 8th, 1846.
RBPLECTI0M8 ON THX CAMPAIOH. 75
States had signalized themselves for courage, energy, and
good conduct. They shrank from no duty or danger.
They failed in no enterprise or conflict. They endured,
without complaint, the perils of' a cUmate in which one-
fifth of their number sank to the grave ; and they bore
with equal firmness the fatigues of marches without the
proper means of transportation. This martial energy —
this firm endurance — this unconquerable courage — ^this
enterprise in war — and this sagacity in the perception and
use of means, thus exhibited on an extensive scale and in
a foreign country, developed new features in- the American
character — the vast capacity of the country for war, and
the restless thirst of adventure which impelled so many
to volunteer in an invasive war. This development of
^tional energy was the only apparent advantage, which
was, so far, gained by this invasion. The plan of the
campaign, as determined by the War Department, though
executed with great military skill by General Taylor, was
necessarily inconsequential ; for it merely caused the con-
quest of barren territories, at the distance of seven hundred
miles from the enemy's capital, and the movement of
troops from a base-line nearly as far from our country.
It led to no results, nor to any valuable purpose, except
that of maintaining garrisons in a barren and useless
country.
76 IMTAIION OP NORTHBEir HBZICO.
CHAPTER V.
GoTemmeut Flan to inyade Northern Mexico — Avemblage of Troopa at
Fort Leavenworth. — Kearney's March to Santa F6.— Nature of the
Country^ — Retreat of the Mezicank — Arrhral at Santa F^. — Kearney's
Proclamation. — Kearney departs for California^ — ^Wool's Elxpedition^'-
Asttcmblage of the Troops at San Antonia. — ^The Object of Uie Exp^
dition. — March to Monclova ; to Penas. — ^Wool joins Worth at SdtiUo.
Taylor's March to Victoria.
While General Taylor was crossing the Rio Grande,
and directing his columns towards Central Mexico, th^
cabinet at Washington sent two other columns against the
northern provinces, under the command, respectively, of
Generals Kearney and Wool. The movements of these
corps, if less important in a military point of view, were
vastly more extensive in their geographical scope and re-
lations. It was their fortune to traverse magnificent
plains, perform rapid and, m modem history, unprece-
dented marches, and conquer to the dominion of the
United States lands unmeasured and almost uninhabited.
The origin of these expeditions seems to have been an
idea entertained by the administration, that the States of
New Mexico, — Chihuahua, Durango, and others in the
upper portion of Mexico, — stood ready to declare them-;
selves independent, and that, by this movement, they
would be at once detached from the central government.
It was stated by some letter-writers, who professed ac-
quaintance with that country, that those States were ready
\\
TROOPS COLLECTED. 77
to form a separate and independent republic. One writer
even went so far as to declare that the Mexicans them-
selves, in these provinces, would form an army to march
against the central government ! With such views, the
war department organized a corps, called the Army of the
West,* which was intended to conquer New Mexico by
marching into Santa Fe. This place, though very unim-
portant as a town, was a point of concentration for the
extensive trade which flowed through it from Chihuahua
on the southwest and St. Louis on the northeast. Vast
as were the plains and uninhabited regions tlirough which
this trade was carried on, it had grown, within a few
years, to be one of great importance in magnitude and
value. On the 16th of May, 1846, at the very time Con-
gress recognised the existence of the war, a company of
Mexican traders arrived at St. Louis, through Santa F6,
from Chihuahua,, with no less than three hundred and
fifty thousand dollars in specie, to expend for wares and
merchandise in the United States. The annual trade
from Santa F^ with St. Louis, Pittsburg, and Philadel-
phia, was supposed to be, in amount, from one to two
millions of dollars. That trade has been cut off by the
events of the war.
The forces which were to compose the Army of the
West, — almost wholly of Volunteers,— commenced as-
sembling at Fort Leavenworth early in June, 1846. Col.
Kearney received his orders in May,' and the Missouri
Volunteers were mustered into service before the end of
June, and on the 30th of June the entire force had de-
parted. The corps of Kearney Vas composed thus : —
* Lieut Emory's JonmaL * NUm*s Regigter, 70, p. 338
o2
78 AMOUNT OF THB PORCB.
Colonel Price's Regiment,
800 men.
" Doniphan's "
. 800 "
Major Clarke's Battalion,
- 400 "
Sumner^s Dragoons,
. 200 «
M,ormon Battalion,
. 600 "
Total force.
- 2,700 "
A large part of this force were mounted men, accom-
panied, however, by a regiment of infantry, a body of
artillery, and a train of wagons. The point of departure
was Fort Leavenworth, on the Missouri river, and the
point to be reached (Santa F^) was one thousand miles
distant. For a greater part of that distance, from the
Missouri to Bent's Fort on the Arkansas, the road lay
over vast plains, which had for ages been the pasturage
of the buffalo, or the hunting-ground of the Indian. Short
dry grass, or sometimes barren ground, with skirts of trees
in the valleys of the streams, made nearly the whole land-
scape ; while occasionally a buffalo in the distance, a
prairie-wolf in the trail, or the carcass of some unfortu-
nate horse given to the wild birds or wilder beasts, gave
variety to this desolate scene. Bent's Fort, the lonely
plantation of Mr. Bonny, and the meeting of a party of
traders, were the only signs of civilization. Beyond the
Arkansas, and on the head-waters of the Cimarou and
Canadian rivers, the country grows mountainous, and the
pine, spruce, and other evergreens begin to give verdure
to the summits. In passing a dividing ridge of these
streams, the army was charmed with one of those splen-
did mountain-scenes which frequently occur in extraor-
dinary sublimity on the spurs of the Cordilleras. It was
the passage of the Raton, a branch of the great Aztec
COL. KEARNBT LEATXS BENt's FORT. 79
mountains, which made the eastern ridge of the Rio
Grande. By barometrical observations, the summit was
7000 feet in height. Towards the northwest, the lofty
top of Pike's peak was visible, and around it other peaks
whose white limestone cliffs looked like snow-banks in the
sunbeams. Above, the rocky tops of the Raton rose in
perpendicular ledges, and assumed the form of castles in
the air, while all around nature exhibited a wide landscape
of wild, various, and beautiful appearances.^
Such scenery in this desolate region was, however,
uncommon. The weary soldier had to pass many a day's
journey without water for his thirst, or grass for his beast.
For twenty miles, in some cases, no spring was to be
found. An eye-witness relates, that in going from the
valley of the Canadian, a traveller might pass a good day's
journey without meeting with either wood, water, or grass.
Such was the unfruitful and uninviting country through
which it was deemed necessary to march an army of the
United States for the conquest of Mexico !
On the 3d of August Kearney left Bent's Fort on the
Arkansas, and in ten days approached the Mexican settle •
menu. Governor Armijo had previously received intima-
tions of his approach, and, according to the accounts of
traders, had gathered from the adjacent provinces a for-
midable force. On the 16th of August he marched out
of Santa Fe, and took post at a remarkably strong posi-
tion. It was an eminence commanding a defile of not
more than forty feet in width, through which lay the road
to Santa Fe. Such a position, with good troops, might
be deemed almost impregnable. Such was not the result.
1 Lt Emory's JounaU-NUM^s Regktor, 71, p. 138
80 SANTB rk CAPTURBD.
Governor Armijo held a council of war. His second in
command, and other officers, advised him against defence.
The advice was followed. The Mexican army retreated,
and Armijo left the province for Chihuahua with a hundred
dragoons. In the mean while Kearney had arrived at San
Miguel, and assured the alarmed alcaldes, padres, and other
influential persons, that he should protect them in their
persons, property, religion, and liberty. On the 18th of
August he passed through the same defile the Mexicans
had just left undefended, and in a few hours entered Santa
Fe. Marching with his troops to the palace, or govern-
or's house, Kearney hoisted the standard of the Union,
and firing a salute of cannon said, '* There, my guns pro-
claim that the flag of the United States floats over the
capital."' On the next day (Aug. 19th) the general ad-
dressed the people, proclaimed that the American army
came to establish free government, ofiered the people
protection, and absolved them from their allegiance to
their former government !
Thus in about fifty days an army (which had been col-
lected in less than a month) had traversed nearly a thou-
sand miles of uninhabited wastes, and proclaimed the
conquest of New Mexico, containing a surface of eighty
thousand square miles, though inhabited by only eighty
thousand people. Considered as a march for both infantry
and artillery, this was a remarkable achievement. The
result was, however, as unsatisfactory to the performers
as it was fruitless of military results, ^anta F6 oflered
neither the splendor nor pleasures of a rich and voluptuous
city. It was a poor town, badly built, inhabited by a balf-
* Jounial of sn oflkser.— Nilei, 71, pi 83.
FACE OF THE COUNTRY. 81
civilized people, m the midst of a barren and uninhabited
country. One of the travellers in this expedition thus
writes : — ** This is the most miserable country I have ever
seen. The houses the people live in are built of mud,
one story high, and have no flooring. They sleep on the
ground, and have neither beds, tables, nor chairs."^
This account probably refers to the mass of the people,
and not the richer class. The mud spoken of is un-
bnmt brick. When the American officers visited the
church, they found it without seats, except one long bench
for the chief men.'
A few villages and well-cultivated fields lay within a
few miles of Santa F^, and the banks of the Rio Grande
below occasionally presented a town. But, for the most
part, a country without resources, and a people without
civilization, were the tempting prospect which New Mexico
oflered to her Anglo-Saxon invaders.
On the 3 1 St of August, two weeks after his arrival at
Santa Fe, Kearney organized an expedition of nine hun-
dred men to scour the banks of the Rio Grande below.
This work Was done without a combat, and without any
other result than the march.
In the mean while General Kearney, acting, as he de-
clared, by authority and under the instructions of the ex-
ecutive administration of the United States, assumed to
direct the civil affairs of New Mexico, and even to declare
the assent of the American nation to the incorporation of
New Mexico with the United States, and to absolve its
citizens from all allegiance to the Mexican government !^
NUes, 71| p. 80. * Diary of an officer, pp. 91, 92 ;— of Nilea 71.
* Kearney's Proclamation may be fonnd in the appendix to Young's
History of Mexica
82 oBN. ksarnet's proclamatioh.
These occurrences are so remarkable in American con-
stitutional history, that they have attracted no small atten-
tion from the gravest and most intelligent minds. The
first in this series of novel proceedings in military history
took place at the town of San Miguel, a few miles from
Santa Fe, on the 16th of August. Summoning the al-
calde and the people of the village into his presence, the
commander of the American army informed them that
they were absolved from all allegiance to the Mexican
government, and that the alcalde must swear allegiance
to the United States ! After some demur, that officer
complied, on condition that his religion was protected.
The oath was then administered in this form : — ** You
swear that you will bear true allegiance to the govern-
ment of the United States of America, and that you will
defend her against all her enemies and opposcrs, in the
name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen."
On the 22d of August, in Santa F^, General Kearney
issued a proclamation, entitled, '* From the Army of the
West to the Inhabitants of New Mexico.**^ This proc-
lamation was so extraordinary, that some paragraphs may
be noted for the very novel ideas they brought before the
minds of the American people. In this he first announces
his intention to hold the department, with its ''original
boundaries, (on both sides the Del Norte,) as a part of the
United States, and under the name of Uie Territory of
New Mexico."
He next informs the people that " it is the wish and in-
tention of the United States to provide for New- Mexico
a free government, with the least possible delay, sunilar
Idem.
— «► - —-tmc-
B8TABLI8HB8 CITIL OOYERNMENT. 83
to those in the United States ; uid the people of New
Mexico will then be called upon to exercise the rights of
freemen in electing their own representatives to the terri-
torial legislature."
The most extraordinary passage of this proclamation is
the following : —
'* The undersigned hereby absolves all persons residing
within the boundary of New Mexico from further alle-
giance to the republic of Mexico, and hereby claims them
as citizens of the United States. Those who remain quiet
and peaceable will be considered as good citizens, and
receive protection ; those who are found in arms, or' in-
stigating others against the United States, will be consid
ered as traitors, and treated accordingly."
Neither the Constitution of the United States nor the
people by act of Congress, or by vote, had provided any
means or expressed any wish for the annexation of New
Mexico. The laws of nations were equally silent as to
any mode by which the allegiance of a citizen can be ab-
solved by any act of a military commander. Nor had the
laws of the United States provided any way by which a
foreign citizen could become a citizen of the United
States, except by naturalization. The conquest of New
Mexico has opened, therefore, a new field for legal inves
tigation, as well as a new chapter in constitutional history,
One month after these proceedings, (on the 25th of Sep-
tember,) when the sparse population of that country seemed
quiet, and the army found no other motives for activity
than such as the amusements of Santa F^ afforded, Gen-
eral Kearney left that place, and with four hundred dra-
goons departed for California. He took the old Copper-
mine route, down the Rio Grande to Sorotto, and thenc/o
84 ARMT OF THB CENTRB.
to the Pacific. On the 20th of October, three hundred
miles west of Santa F^, he was informed by a returning
party that Fremont had ahready taken possession of Cali-
fornia. He then sent Major Sumner back with the largest
part of the dragoons, and taking only one hundred with
himself, pursued, with this small force, the daring enter-
prise of crossing the deserts and mountains of Western
America in the cold season.
Thus was effected the conquest of the province of New
Mexico by the troops of the United States : bloodless in
its achieyement, and fruitless of any inmiediate results,
but illustrating the energy of the American people in the
collection and movement of troops, and the celerity with
which the great western plains may be traversed by mili-
tary forces.
At the same time that the cabinet at Washington formed
the plan of moving a column on Santa Fe, they also or-
ganized another against the Central States of Mexico.
This was called the " Army of the Centre,** and was di-
rected to march on Chihuahua, the capital of the province
of that name, and supposed to be the centre of much of the
Mexican strength and wealth. The object of this expe-
dition, like that of Kearney, was to detach the northern
and northwestern from the central government of Mexico,
and thus induce that government to make peace by cut-
ting off its resources.
The *' Army of the Centre" was placed under the com-
mand of Brigadier-general John £. Wool, one of the small
but gallant band who, by their heroic stand upon the
heights of Queenstown, had, even in defeat, shed lustre
np6n the American arms, and acquired a lasting distinc-
tion for themselves. This army was thus composed : —
\\
STRENGTH OF WOOL's COMMAND. 85
OFFICERS OF THE STAFF.
General John E. Wool — Commander.
Colonel Churchill — Inspector-general.
Captain Cross — Quartermaster.
Captain W. D. Fraser — Engineer.
REGULAR TROOPS.
5 companies U. S. Dragoons — Col. Harney, 300 men.
1 company Artillery — Captain Washington, - 100
2 companies U. S. 6th Infantry — Capt. Bonne-
viUe, 100
a
u
VOLUNTEERS.
1 regiment of Arkansas Cavalry — Col. Yell, - 750
2 regiments of Illinois Infantry — Col. Hardin, 1,600
1 company Kentucky Cavalry — Capt. Wil-
liams, 90
Total forces - - 2,940 "
These troops were directed by the War Department to
assemble at Antonio de Bexar, on the river Antonio, and
thence proceed to Chihuahua by Presidio Rio Grande.
At the time the orders for their assembling were given,
these troops were in different parts of the United States,
remote from each other and remote from the point of ren-
dezvous. Their marches, and the celerity and exactness
of their movement and assembling, are among the remark-
able incidents of the war with Mexico. The Illinois, regi-
ments proceeded by water, in steamboats, down the Mis-
sissippi, and by the Gulf of Mexico to Lavaca on Mata-
gorda Bay. Here they commenced their march to San
Antonio.
86 CONCBNTRATSS AT SAN ANTONIO.
The Illinois regiments arrived at Pallida Creek, twelve
miles from Lavaca, on the 7th of August, and on the
11 th commenced their march to Antonio de Bexar. The
route to Antonio was through a dry prairie, crossing the
head-streams of the Antonio and the river Guadaloupe,
along whose banks alone the thirsty and tired soldier
might expect to find water and shade. A writer, who was
a member of the Illinois troops, thus speaks of this tedious
march: "Heat — heat — heat; rain — rain — rain; mud —
mud — mud, intermingled with spots of sand and gravel,
form the principal features of the route from Levacca to
San Antonio. Loaded wagons of course move slowly
over the roads, and our troops were moreover scourged
on the route by the mumps and the measles."^
These regiments arrived at Antonio de Bexar (the place
of rendezvous) before the 1st of September: so did all
the corps who were to assemble there. The movement
of these bodies was quite remarkable. Captain Wash-
ington with the regular artillery had gone from Carlisle
Barracks, Pennsylvania, two thousand miles, and arrived
on the 31st of August. Major Bonneville made eight
hundred miles in six weeks with the infantry, and arrived
on the 27th of August. Colonel Yell, with the Arkansas
cavalry, arrived from Washington, Arkansas, on the 28th.
Thus, after these immense marches, did the troops of
Wool's army concentrate, with remarkable precision, at
the place of rendezvous, prepared to march into the terri-
tories of Mexico.
The extent of these marches and the extreme barren-
ness of the country through which the route lay, after
' " Roudenao** to the Natioma Intelligencer.— NOm^s Regvter, 71, pi 90.
\\
MARCH UPON CHIHTAHUA. 87
leaving liic Mississippi, made this expedition one of great
expense and difficulty in its transportation. The real base-
Une upon which an army operates, is that which contains
the depots of subsistence. In this instance, as throughout
the war with Mexico, those depots were on the Missis-
sippi river and the cities of the Atlantic coast. The same
writer whom we have quoted says, " Forage and subsist-
ence for the entire army are derived from New York,
Baltimore, and New Orleans. The transportation by
water, therefore, exceeds thousands of miles, while the
total of land transportation may be found among the hun-
dreds. The bare cost of bringing a bushel of corn from
Lavaca to this place (Antonio) is $1.20, and other sup-
plies in proportion." This fact at once illustrates the ex-
pense which invariably attends the march of an army
through barren countries.
Assembled at Antonio, the army was now ready to
commence its march against Chihuahua. But with what
'object ? The declared object was to aid in establishing
the independence of the northern States, and thus act
against the central government of Mexico. But was this
a probable result? The same writer already .quoted per-
tinently asks, " Are the people of the United States pur-
suing a war of conquest, of propagandism, or of necessity?
Do they hope to convert provinces to their political faith
by sending forth among them an armed soldiery to quicken
their conclusions, and give energy to their admiration?
Are they desirous, by a grand military display, to exhibit
to the Mexicans the vast superiority of their free institu-
tions over their more humble neighbors ? Do they hope,
by a series of marches and counter-marches, by glittering
bayonets and flashing sabres, by waving banners and the
■*r
88 WHAT WERE TH^ OBJECTS.
clangor of martial music, to intimidate a people too proud
to work and almost too poor to be pitied ? Do they wish,
by a lavish expenditure of public funds, to bribe a whole
nation to throw off its allegiance ? Are ,we to plant our
flags at Presidio Rio Grande, — beat our drums at San
Fernando, Santa Rosa, and Monclova, — carry the tramp
of our war-steeds through Baria, Saledo, San Carlos, and
Chericotti, and let the thunders of our artillery roll within
the walls of Chihuahua merely to demonstrate the mili-
tary prowess of a great nation, and the inherent energies
of a free people ? So far as can be seen or known at
present, these are the sole objects of the expedition, con-
ceived in folly, and which has already cost millions of the
national treasury, although it has not yet passed the
threshold."^
The language of this writer, although strong, was pro
phetic. The expedition pursued the route, and was at-
tended with no other results than those which these ques-
tions indicate. Early in September, the division of Wool
took up its line of march from San Antonio for the Pre-
sidio Rio Grande, passing, in most of the distance, over
the same dry and uninviting plains as those which the
lUinois Regiments had passed from Lavaca to San Anto-
nio. Crossing the Rio Grande at the Presidio, General
Wool and his corps pushed on by long and wearisome
marches to the village of Santa Rosa. Here it was discov-
ered that the geographical knowledge of the War Depart-
ment was by no means equal to its martial energies.
Looking to the west for the road to Chihuahua the army
beheld in front the lofty mountain-range of the Sierra
* Letter of *' Bondenac*' to Uie National Intellig«ocer.
\A
ARRIVED AT SIXRRA GORDA. 89
Gorda, lifting their summits four thousand feet above the
level of tlie plains ! The officer of Topographical En-
gineers in vain looks for a single defile through which the
army may pass to the west.^ It is compelled to turn
south towards Sallillo. On the 29th of October, six
weeks after leaving the Rio Grande, it reaches Monclova,
(me of the principal towns of Coahuila. Here the troops
were received in a friendly manner, the Prefect content^
ing himself simply with a protest against the occupation
of the Mexican country. For a month the army con-
tinued to enjoy the Mexican hospitalities as if no hostili-
ties interrupted the harmony of the respective nations.
The soldiers of Wool's corps acted as the armed watch-
men of Coahuila. The robber and the savage alike fled
from the drum-beat of the guard and the echoes of the
bugle. The discipline of the army was equal to its en-
ergy ; and the inhabitants around slept peacefully while
the conquering invader unfurled his flag along the base of
the Sierra Gorda.
At length General Wool, writing to General Taylor, in-
quired — " What is to be gained by going to Chihuahua ?"
General Taylor, then about to occupy the state of Ta-
maulipas by marching to Victoria, replied, that he (Wool)
should abandon the expedition to Chihuahua, and advance
with his column to Parras, a place still further to the
south, and not very distant from Saltillo. Here the army
remained for a short time, till, in the month of December,
it joined the division of Worth, in the town of Saltillo.
The object of the enterprise, — the conquest of Chihuahua,
Report of Captain Hughes, of the Topographical Corpa, Febniary,
1847.
h2
.-^^
\
90 6BNBRAL WOOL MARCHES TO PARRAS.
— had previously been abandoned ; but this division, which
had so far been employed only in marches, was soon to
appear, under the able .Wool and the veteran Taylor, vic-
torious on the bloody and memorable field of Buena
Vista.*
The march of Wool, like that of Kearney, was re-
markable for the steadiness and celerity with which new
troops, of all the different arms, traversed vast deserts
uninhabited, and unsupplied, except by provisions brought
from the interior of the United States. By the route pur-
sued it was seven hundred miles from San Antonio de
Bexar to Saltillo, and this distance, deducting the period
at Monclova and Parras, was performed in about six
weeks.
General Wool arrived just in time at Saltillo to meet
the intentions of General Taylor, and prepare for the
events wliich followed.
The commander on the Rio Grande had proceeded with
a large body of troops to meet another corps, under Gen-
eral Patterson, marching from Matamoras to occupy Vic-
toria, the capital of the state of Tamaulipas. At Monte-
morlos, sixty-eight miles from Monterey, Taylor was in-
formed that Santa Anna was about to move on Saltillo,
with a view to attack Worth. This recalled him, with
the regulars, to Monterey. Generals Patterson and Quit-
man proceeded to Victoria, and ultimately to*Tampico,
where they made a portion of the army of Scott, and
took part in the brilhant and successful siege and cap-
ture of Vera Cruz.
' The Illinois Regiments, the Arkansas Regiment, and Washington*!
Artillery, were in the batUe of Baena Vista, and constituted one^hird ol
Taylor's army.
M
BXPXDITION OF CAPTAIN PKXHONT. 91
CHAPTER VI.
I
Bacpeditkm of Captain FVemont — Arrivee at Monterey, California* — Sne-
picions of Governor de Castro. — Fremont takes position. — Returns by
Oregon. — Returns again to Monterey. — Is threatened by De Castro.—
Declares War. — Capture of Mexicans. — Sails from Monterey to Diego.
— Capture of the City of Angels. — Conquest of California. — Object of
the Government. — Marcy's Letter to Stevenson. — Marcy's Orders to
Kearney. — Scott's Orders. — Insurrection in New Mexico. — Murder of
Bent — Battle of Canada. — Battle of Pueblo de Taos. — Insurrection in
California. — March of Doniphan. — Battle of Brozitos. — Capture of B3
Paso. — Battle of Sacramento. — Capture of Chihuahua. — March to Sal-
tiUo. — ^Arrivaf at New Orleans^ — March of Gilpin to the Rocky Moun-
In the autumn of 1845, Captain Fremont, of the To-
pographical Corps of Engineers, set out with an armed
party of men, prepared for hunting and Indian warfare, to
cross the mountains and penetrate the interior of Califor-
nia. This officer had been greatly distinguished in a pre-
vious expedition for bold enterprise, scientific attainments,
and interesting researches amidst the wilderness of Rocky
Mountains. The ostensible object of his present jourqey
was to seek a new route to Oregon, further south than the
one heretofore travelled by emigrants, and to seek also
scientific discoveries amidst these unknown and unde-
scribed regions of the west. His well-known love of
science, and his hitherto scrupulous conduct, afford strong
presumption that such was the real purpose of his mission.
He pursued his journey, undisturbed by any extraor-
dinary events, till, on the 29th of January, 1846, he ar-
98 ARRIVES AT MONTEREY.
rived in the neighborhood of Monterey, California. To
avoid suspicion, or collision, he left his party about one
hundred miles from Monterey, and proceeded alone to that
place to explain the object of his visit. Here he proceed-
ed to the house of the American consul, (Mr. Larkin,)
and then called upon the governor, De Castro. The
governor complained that he (Fremont) was bringing an
ariiK^d force into the province with hostile views. To
this Captain Fremont replied, that he was not even an
officer of the line, but belonged to the Topographical
Corps, and that his object was to survey a new route to
Oregon in a more southerly direction, his visit being
peaceful, and that he desired to winter in the valley of
the San Joaquin. To this the governor assented. Cap-
tain Fremont then returned and brought his men nearer to
the town, when he was informed that the governor was
raising troops to attack him, and warned by Mr. Larkin
(the consul) of his danger. Thus warned, he took post,
with his small party of sixty men, on the summit of th6
Sirtray at a point about thirty miles frpm Monterey, and
overlooking that town. Here, in the clear sky of the Pa-
cific, and on this height, he could observe De Castro pre-
paring his men to march upon tlie American camp. Here
ho hoisted the flag of the United States, and informed the
Mexican that he would defend the post to the last. His ^
intention was, if attacked and defeated, there to die with
iiis companions on the spot where they had hoisted the
flag« and leave to their country to avenge their death and
vindicate their conduct.^ This fate was fortunately avbid-
* Benumbs Letter to the PN^dent, pabliriied in the *« Umon," NoTem-
Ur 9th, 184a
V
FREMONT DEPARTS FOR ORBOON. 93
ed. De Castro marched out, but did not attack them.
Fremont, finding himself not attacked, marched out of his
position on the 10th of March, by the valley of San Joa-
quin, and commenced his march, by slow degrees, towards
Oregon. On the following morning De Castro took pos-
session of his camp, and finding some old vessels or
other camp luggage, boasted of the flight of the Ameri-
cans!
On the 1st of April Fremont had reached lat. 40^ in
the valley of the Sacramento. On the 14th of May he
was on the direct route to Oregon. On the 15tli he ar-
rived at the Great Tlamath Lake. Here he found the
mountains of the Sierra Nevada in front covered with
snow, and himself and party surrounded by hostile In-
dians. In this condition of affairs he determined to re-
turn back by the river Sacramento. Oh his arrival at the
Bay of Francisco, he learns that Governor de Castro is at'
Zanona, on the opposite side, preparing an expedition
against the American settlers. Under all the circumstan-
ces of the case he determined, on the 6th day of June,
to overturn, if possible, the Mexican government in Cali-
fornia. At that time the war with Mexico actually exist-
ed, and two battles had been fought on the Rio Grande ;
but with this fact Captain Fremont was not acquainted.
He formed his judgment on the circumstances around
him, and not on any of the previous events connected
with military operations.^
A party of De Castro's men having crossed the Bay,
Fremont's men captured fourteen, with two Inindred
mules. On the 1st of June he surprised and took the
w •
' Colonel Benton's Letter to the President S
>'■
94 RBTURNS AND TAKB8 ZANONl.
military post at Zanona. Colonel Vallejo and several
officers were taken, with nine cannon, and two hundred
and fifty stand of arms. From this he proceeded to the
Rio de los Americanos for assistance. There he heard
that De Castro was about to attack his little garrtson of
only fourteen men, at Zanona. On the 2dd of June he
started with ninety mounted riflemen to their aid. Riding
night and day he arrived on the 25th, a distance of eighty
miles. De Castro's vanguard of seventy men was. at-
tacked and defeated by twenty Americans. About this
time two Americans were taken by Torre, the comman*
der of the Mexican party, and cut to pieces. In return^
Fremont took and shot three of Torre's men.
On the 4th of July Fremont assembled die Americans
in that neighborhood at Zanona, and after making a speech,
he and his companions declared the Independence of Cali-
fornia. A few days after this news came from Commo-
dore Sloat, that the American flag was hoisted at Monte-
rey. Fremont then set out with one hundred and sixty
riflemen in pursuit of De Castro, who was retreating with
four hundred men. From this he is recalled by Commo-
dore Sloat. On his return to Monterey he found Stockton
in conmiand, who was preparing a new expedition by
water. By sailing down the coast he thought he might
cut ofi* De Castro's retreat, who was moving southward-
ly to the lower posts.^ On the 26th of July Fremont
sailed in the sloop-of-war Cyane, with one hundred and
sixty riflemen and seventy marines, the object being the
port of San Diego, which it was supposed would be
reached in time to cut off De Castro.
* Coloiiel Benton's LtCtir.
\
CALIFORNIA CONQUSRSD. ^5
At this time Governor de Castro was encamped at
Mera, three miles from Ciudad de los Ai^gelos. In a few
days after the departure of Fremont, Stockton sailed
in the frigate Congress for the position of De Castro.
When'the latter heard of the approach of the American
forces, he broke up his camp and proceeded to Mexico,
while his officers and men were scattered in different di-
rections. On the 13th of August, 1846, Stockton being
joined by Captain (now Colonel) Fremont, with Mr. Lar-
kin, late American consul, entered the City of Angels, the
capital of the Californias.^ Thus was completed, in a
brief campaign, and with scarcely any bloodshed, the con-
quest of the Califomias.
On the coast, the squadron under Commodore Sloat
had taken the initial, and on the 6th of July, 1846, had
hoisted the flag of the United States at Monterey. On
the 22d of July, Commodore Stockton assumed the com-
mand of the naval forces, and he, with Fremont, com-
pleted, as we have seen, the overturn of the Mexican
government in California. General Kearney did not ar-
rive from his overland journey till these transactions were
completed. Since then, controversies have arisen between
the distinguished commanders on that station — Fremont
and Kearney — in relation to their respective duties and
commands. The events in which they were engaged have
become memorable from their connection with the first
footsteps and conquering march of that great nation which
claims from destiny the dominion of the North American
continent. In the traceway of these wild wilderness paths,
some historian of after times may discover the steps by
> NiWf BegirtM, 71, pi lo5.
96 THE PREBIQENTS TIEWB.
which a nation, ascended to imperial grandeur and liberty,
puraued llie stream of civilization round the earth.
The object of the American gorcrnmenl, so far as the
President can control its operations, is discoveied in the
instructions to its officers. While disclaiming conquest
as the motive or object of the war, the executive of the
United States furnished recorded proof that permanent
conquest was intended to be its result. In the summer
of 1846, a regiment of volunteers was raised in the city
of New York, commanded by Colonel J. D. Stevenson.
The object of this regiment was for some time unknown
to the public. It was at length embarked for California.
In the correspondence of the War Department sub'se-
quently published, a letter from the Secretary (Marcy)
disclosed the intentions of the President. Speaking of
the composition of this regiment, the Secretary says : —
" The President expects, and indeed requires, that great
care should be taken to have it composed of suitable per-
sons — 1 mean of good habits ; as far as pracitcabic of
various pursuits, and such as would be likely to remain, at
the end of the war, either in Oregon or in any other ter-
ritory in that region of the globe which may then be a
part of the United States."^ This regiment, then, were
to act as pioneers in the work of conquest and coloniza-
tion.
The directions given by Secretary Marcy to General
Kearney, in forming the new government, assimilate them-
selves to this purpose. In his letter of the 3d June, 1646,
he says — " You will eslablisii temporary civil govem-
menis therein, abolishing all arbitrary restrictions that may
■ Appendix to tbe CcscroMoul Glob*, 1845-6, p. 6(b.
\\
INSTRUCTIONS OF THE SECRETARY. 97
exist, SO far as it can be done with safety/^ You may
*' continue existing officers, if they will take the oath of
allegiance to the United States." — " Assure them it is the
wish and design of the United States to provide for them
a free government." — " They will then be called upon to
exercise the rights of freemen.''^
At this time Mexico was a free country, so far as a
written republican Constitution could make her so. To
offer the people of that country freedom, then, could ha?e
no possible meaning, unless it was meant to bring it
within the limits of the peculiar govemiAent of the United
States. Much less could any other construction be put
upon the phras^— '' called upon to exercise the rights of
freemen."
The oath of allegiance, too, which by the laws of na-
tions could not be deprived of its legal virtue by any action
of a foreign nation, and, by the Constitution of the United
States, could not be made void in this country, except by
an act of naturalization, was thus, by the order of a Pres-
ident, to be made void by a compulsory oath to the United
States ! The novelty of such a doctrine, if not its utter
contempt of the civil law of this country and the public
law of nations, attracted the attention of grave statesmen
and of earnest patriots. It was sought, by the friends of
the President, to explain the meaning of these documents,
so that they might not appear in opposition to the theory
and Constitution of American government ; but, however
explained, these orders and proclamations yet remain
among the most extraordinary movements of an extraor-
dinary war."
* Marc j*s Letter, 3d Jane, 1846.
* General Scott, in hie offidal oiden, while complying with liio gen-
1 7
98 MSUUEKS TEND TO IMSURRBCTION.
The conquest of New Mexico, which we have seen com-
pleted under General Kearney, though apparently blood-
lesBy was yet to be attended by conflicts, if less sanguinary,
yet more interesting than tlie common events of war. On
the 19th of January, 1847, a violent and totally unexpected
insurrection against the American authorities took place at
Taos, in New Mexico. The origin and progress of this
outbreak appears, by evidence subsequently given, to have
been this : — In pursuance of the principles stated in the
proclamations before referred to, and of orders expressly
given by the President, Kearney had proceeded to organize
a civil government. He had appointed a governor, sheriff,
district attorney, and other functionaries ; as if the general
of an army, in the service of the United States, could have
any otlier than mihtary authority, or become by any means
the source of a civil authority which, in the very nation he
represented, could be conferred only through the laws.
These civil functionaries, thus appointed, went quietly to
work, as if they were in one uf the States of the Ameri-
can Union: unconscious that the passions of a hostile
people, the jealousy of displaced officers, or the violation
«ra] direction of the Prarident to occupy the country, seeins to hare dit-
oreetly avoided in hit language the absurdity involTed in these proclama-
tiona, and in the order of Marcy on which they wore founded. In Scott'a
Order to Kearney, dated November 3d, 1846, he says: — ** You will erect
and garrison durable defences for holding the bays of Monterey and San
IVancisco, together with snch other important points in the same province
m 3rou may deem it necessary to occupy" — ** You will not, however, for-
mally declare the pnninee to be annexed. Permanent incoipoiation of
the territory must depend on the government of the United Statee.** In
this language General Scott avoids the absorditiee of the proclamatiot^
and recognises the fundamental distinction between the orden of the Pres-
ident and the legioUUion of Oongreao,
INSURRSCTION AT TAOS. 99
of national asages, conld arouse the indignation of the in-
▼aded people, or expose them to more than common dan-
gers ! They were mistaken in fact, as they were incautious
in conduct. The displaced officers and the national pride
occasioned a conspiracy to overthrow the American power
in New Mexico. It appears from testimony that Thomas
Cortez, Diego Archillette, Pino, Armijo, and others formed
a plan for a general insurrection and overthrow of the
Americans on Christmas night. This failed, or rather,
was postponed. On the 15th of January, however, a
tragedy occurred which startled the Americans, both in
New Mexico and in the United States. On that night, Gov-
ernor Charles Bent, with Elliott the sheriff, and twenty-
three others, were murdered in the town of San Fernando
de Taos. Seven others were killed at Turley's, eight
miles from Taos, in the valley of the Moro.^ In a short
time the insurrection became general, and Col. Sterling
Price, who commanded the troops at Santa F6, learned
that a strong body of Mexicans and Indians were advan-
cing against the place. Mustering nearly four hundred
troops — cavahry, infantry, and artillery — ^he marched out
to meet them on the 2dd of January. He found them
posted, in a strong position, on the heights and in houses
below, in front of the village of Covoda. The battle com-
menced with a cannonade and general firing, which lasted
for an hour and a half. Colonel Price then ordered a
general discharge upon the houses and lines of the enemy.
Tbey were soon dispersed in every direction.' The Mex-
ican force engaged was supposed to be fifteen hundred
* Lt Aberf ■ Letter of Febraary 20th, in the Union.
• CokMl FlriM*b Deipiiteh, 15Ch Febnnry, 1847.
««
100 ATTACK ON PUBBLO DB TAOS.
men. Their loss was thirty-six. That of the Americans
two killed and six wounded.
On the 27th of January Colonel Price marched to Lu«
ceros, on the Rio Grande, and on the 29th to La Joya, a
strong pass, situated in a canon, or deep pass of the moun-
tains, where the men could scarcely move abreast. Along
the slopes of the mountains the enemy were posted, and
there they were attacked by a detachment under Captain
Burgwin of one hundred and eighty men, who, after a short
conflict, dislodged them, with the loss to the Mexicans of
twenty killed and sixty wounded.^ On the 1st of Febru-
ary the main body of the forces, under Colonel Price,
reached the top of the Taos mountain, which was cov-
ered with snow two feet deep. On the 2d they quartered
at Rio Chiciti. On the 3d they entered the town of Don
Fernando de Taos, which was the scene of the massacre
of Governor Bent and party. The Mexican viUage was
abandoned by the enemy, who had taken post at the In-
dian town of Pueblo de Taos. This was a strongly-for-
tified post. The key to the position was a large church,
and two large buildings ascending in a pyramidal form, six
or seven stories high, and pierced with embrasures for
rifles. Around these was a wall, and within them the
enemy had taken post. The Americans brought up a six-
pounder and a howitzer, with which they battered the
church and walls for two hours ; but their anmiunition-
wagons not having come up, they retreated to Fernando.
On the morning of the 4th, at nine a. m., the Americans
again advanced, determined to take the place. The six-
pounder and two howitzers, commanded by Lieutenant
* GolMNBl FkiM'a Doipotch, 15th Febnnry, 1847.
PUBBLO DS TAOS TAKXK. lOl
Dyer, of the Ordnance, were brought to bear against the
church on one side, and two howitzers on another side.
After battering for two hours a charge was made by Cap-
tain Burgwin, of the Dragoons, with two companies iu one
line, and Captain Angrecy, with three companies in an-
other line.^ In this assault Captain Burgwin, a lieutenant
of volunteers, and several dragoons were killed. The
church walls were still unpenetrated by the Artillery.
Ladders were made, and a small hole cut with axes;
through that, fire was thrown into the church. A new as-
sault was made upon the church door, which failed, with
loss.* The six-pounder was then run up, at half-past
three p. m., within sixty yards, and a breach made large
enough to admit four men abreast. A storming party
then entered the church, which was found full of smoke.
The enemy still occupied the two large buildings ; but
eariy next morning, the aged men and women, bearing
their children, images, and crosses, came out to meet the
<^i™y> hogging for mercy. The request was granted. In
this battle the Americans were about four hundred and
fifty; the Mexicans about six hundred. The Ameri-
can loss was fifty-four killed and wounded; that of
the Mexicans one hundred and fifty-two killed and
many wounded. Taken, as a whole, the short cam-
paign of Colonel Price, with Captain Burgwin and others,
from the 20th of January to the 5th of February, 1847,
was one of the best exhibitions of mihtary gallantry which
has occurred in the minor parts of the war. Marching
in midwinter over snow-covered ground, they three times
^ LetUr of Lieutenant A. B. Dyer.
* Coioiiel r^e'f Report, 15Ui Fetarmry, 1847.
i2
102 DIFFICULTISa IN CALIFORNIA.
engaged the enemy ; and in the last conflict, stormed and
carried a very strong military positicm against superior
numbers.
During the winter of 1846-7 the Califomians, either not
properly understanding or not impressed with the value of
an oath of allegiance to the government of the United
States, also rose in insurrection. At the City of Angels,
and other points, the flag of the United States was torn
down, and that of Mexico hoisted in its place. In No-
vember, 1846, an action occurred at Domingos Rancho,
between a party from the United States frigate Savannah
and a portion of the Californians. The latter were forti-
fied, and supported by artillery. They gained an advan-
tage over the sailors, who were on foot, which raised their
courage and excited their hopes. In December, Commo-
dore Stockton, having landed at Diego, advanced to the
City of Angels, and again re-established the American
dominion.
Soon after this a battle occurred between the Ameri-
cans under General Kearney and the Mexicans at San
Gabriel. In this engagement the Mexicans were defeats
ed with loss; but on the American side several were
killed, and General Kearney wounded.
In New Mexico and California, the inhabitants appear
to have been much more interested in regaining their
country by popular insurrection, than they had been in
defending it against the advance of the invaders. Either
they had been at first surprised, and yielded to an unex-
pected necessity, or the American army, and the new
governments instituted among them had not impressed their
minds with an idea of superiority and excellence. Both may
in some measure have been true. - But the lesson taught
Vl
Doniphan's expedition. 103
by these insurrections is, that the Mexican inhabitants of
New Mexico and California remain under the dominion of
the United States only as a conquered people ; not from
any adhesion to oaths of allegiance, or to any admiration
(ta the free institutions which were proclaimed among
them.
In this interval between the conquest of New Mexico
by Kearney, and the march of Scott from Vera Cruz,
there occurred, in the northern provinces of Mexico, one
of those military adventures which convert the realities
of history into the brilliant and enticing scenes of romance.
This was the march of Colonel Doniphan's corps through
the wild and unknown regions of Northern Mexico.
When the American army, under Kearney, had reached
Santa F^, it was already nine hundred miles from the
point of its departure. The great part of this distance
had been passed over vast prairie plains, over arid deserts,
in the valleys of streams, where no town or habitation was
seen, and over hills like the Raton, from whose lofty
summit no sign of civilization could be seen, and the dis-
tant horizon viras limited only by the towering peaks of
the Rocky Mountains. At Santa F6 there was but little
real interruption to this wilderness prospect. New Mex
ico contained fifty thousand square miles, but only one
hundred thousand inhabitants. The States of Chihuahua,
Durango, and Coahuila, below, scarcely contained a
greater population in proportion. Here and there a Mex-
ican town appeared, and at intervals spots of beautiful
culture, of vineyards and firuits ; but, for the most part,
there were uninhabited regions, unknown to the Ameri-
cans, and almost untrodden by travellers.
In the early part of December Colonel Doniphan left
104 DONIPHAN MARCRSS FOR CHIHUAHUA.
Santa Fe with eight hundred men, in three diyisions, des-
tined for Chihuahua. The object of the expedition was
to join General Wool in the heart of Northern Mexico.
Wool, as has been detailed, marched witli what was
called the Army of the Centre from San Antonio de
Bexar for Chihuahua. The latter point he never reach-
ed ; but Colonel Doniphan now supposed him either at
Chihuahua or on his route. Doniphan, accordingly,
marched south to form a junction. On the 21st of De-
cember his corps reached Brozitos, and the troops were
dispersed getting wood, when a large force of the enemy,
supposed to be a thousand strong, appeared in sight.
The Americans immediately formed in line. The Mex-
icans were composed of Lancers and Infantry. A Mex-
ican officer rode out on a fine charger, displaying a black
flag. Their column immediately charged, and were re-
ceived by the Americans with a well-directed fire of rifles.
This determined the engagement. The Mexicans fled.
Doniphan then pursued his march at his leisure.
On the 27th of December Doniphan's corps entered
El Paso del Norte without opposition. This is a consid-
erable town on the Rio del Norte, or rather Rio Grande,
the former being the name of that river in New Mexico.
This town contains about five thousand inhabitants ; but
there are about eleven thousand settled along the river for
twenty-five miles. It is on the road to Chihuahua, and
at one of the principal crossings of the Rio Grande.
Here Colonel Doniphan was compelled to wait for re-
inforcements, and also to hear from General Wool. The
Americans were surrounded with a hostile population,
and continually expecting an attack. One who was pres-
ent writes, " Here we have spent a month in anxiety,
\\
HALTS AT EL PASO DEL NORTB. 105
drudgery, and toil."^ Nothing, however, was heard firom
Wool ; and it was long before reinforcements arrived.
At length, on the Ist of February, Captain Weigh tman
arrived with the Artillery, and Doniphan's command was
increased to the amount of about nine hundred men.
In the latter part of February he set out from £1 Paso,
and on the 23d the American forces were at Carmen, one
hundred miles from Chihuahua. In the mean time, Gen-
eral Heredia, who commanded the Mexican forces in
Chihuahua, having heard of the approach of the Ameri-
can army, despatched General Conde with eight hundred
cavalry to watch the Americans. On the 21st General
Heredia himself took position with additional troops near
the Sacramento river, and awaited the approach of Colo*
Del Doniphan.
The forces of Heredia were thus composed : —
Conde's Cavalry ... 800 men
7th Regular Infantry - - - 70 "
Chihuahua Battalion ... 250 "
National Guards - - - 180 "
Dragoons - - . . . 50
Ten pieces of artillery - - 119
Corps of other cavalry - - 106
«
it
Total of Heredia's army - 1676 "
Many of these troops were the new levies of the country
— National Guards and Volunteers.*
On the 28lh of February the American army discovered
' Letter in the Mwouri Repablican.
* General Jow Heredia'i Report, Maieh 3d, 1847, in the " Union/'
Aprii 19th.
106 BATTLB OF SACRAMBNTO.
ihe enemy intrenched near the Rancbo Sacramento, on
the riyer Sacramento. The position was a yery strong
one. It was in a valley about four miles in width, having
a range of mountains on each side. The Rio Sacramen-
to, and Arroyo Seco, both crossed the valley here ; and
the main road to Chihuahua, pursuing the valley, crosses
the Sacramento at the Rancho Sacramento. The Mexi-
can intrenchments were on a ridge between these streams,
and completely commanding the road. Their right rested
on the Cerro Frijoles, with high precipitous sides, on
which was a battery commanding the surrounding coun-
try and the pass leading to Chihuahua, through the Arroyo
Seco. On their left was the Cerro Sacramento, a pile of
immense volcanic rocks, surmounted by a battery which
commanded the main road to Chihuahua.^
A passage was found practicable across the Arroyo
Seco, within reach of the enemy's fire ; and the Ameri-
can column having reached the ground between the Seco
and Sacramento, commenced deploying towards the table-
land occupied by the Mexicans. The column of General
Conde's cavalry, opposed to the American right, now com-
menced a charge, which was returned by the fire of the
Artillery Battery, consisting of ^six pieces, under the com-
mand of Major Clark. At the third fire the enemy's cav-
alry gave way and dispersed.^ They fell back to the
Mexican camp, and rallied behind a redoubt. This the
Americans attacked with artillery. Captain Weightman
rapidly advancing ^ith two howitzers, supported by Cap-
tain Reed's company of horse, and then by Lieutenant-
> Report of Major Clark to Colonel Doniphan, Maieh 9d, 1847
* Heredia'a Report
\\
HBXICAK8 DBFSATBD. 107
ocdonel Mitchell, delivering his fire with great effect, the
enemy were driven from the redoubt. The MezicaM
were pursued towards the mountains by Lieutenant-
colonel Mitchell, Lieutenant-colonel Jackson, and' Major
Gilpin, accompanied by Weightman with his section of
howitzers. In the mean time the Mexicans had carried
their cannon to the Cerro Sacramento, to cover their re«
treat. The fire of the American artillery soon silenced
these, and the Rancho Sacramento was then attacked.
At length the Mexicans were driven from their last posi-
tion, and the victory was complete.^ The Mexicans lost
one hundred men and ten pieces of artillery.
Colonel Doniphan and his little army entered the city
of Chihuahua, the fruit of this victory, in divisions, on the
1st and 2d of March. This town is the capital of one of
the most important States of Mexico, and contains more
than forty thousand inhabitants. It lies on a branch of
the Conchas river, two hundred and fifty miles south of
£1 Paso. On the east lies the Rio Grande, and on the
west the lofty summits of the Sierra Madre. The coun-
try is diversified with mountams and vales. The army
passed rugged cliffs of basaltic rock on one side, and on
the other fields rich with the finest wheat. In the clear
atmosphere of this elevated region, the mountain-tops
would seem, in the distance, blue as the skies above ; or,
near by, would darkly frown in the cold gray aspect of
its granite rock. Chihuahua, too, is the centre of rich
and various mines. Not more than twelve miles from it
are silver mines supposed to be the richest in Mexico.
These mines are generally owned by private companies,
> Clark'i Report
108 DONIPHAN OCCUFIB8 CHIHUAHUA.
composed of English or Spanish proprietors. At Chi-
huahua, in this rich country and pleasant climate, the
army of Doniphan rested in the bright days of spring.
They had departed so far from tlie American lines of in-
telligence, as to be ignorant of the situation or place of the
American forces. The expedition had been planned with
the idea that the corps of Doniphan would find the array
of Wool at Chihuahua ; but that army was not there.
The reason we have already seen. Wool had encountered
beyond Monclova the lofty ridges of the Sierra Madre, and
been compelled to change his course to the south, and
eventually to Saltillo.^ After waiting in vain for any ap-
pearance of Wool, and having remained six weeks at Chi-
huahua,' the army at last took its line of march. Colonel
Doniphan moved his corps from Chihuahua in three divis-
ions, on the 25th, 26th, and 28th of April. Marching
southwardly, through Cerro Gordo, Mapimi, and Parras,
they reached Saltillo, three hundred and fifty miles fur-
ther, on the 22d of May, 1847. Remaining but three
days, on the 25th day of May they marched to Monterey.
Pursuing their journey with rapid steps, they descended
the Rio Grande, navigated the Gulf of Mexico, and arrived
at New Orleans on the 15th of June. Here the volunteers
were mustered out of the service of the United States,
embarked on steamboats, and were soon returned to their
homes in Missouri. In a little more than a year, this
corps of volunteers, mustered from private life, had, by
land and by water, — over mountain-tops and sandy plains, —
' See Chapter 5th. .
* For a full and moit intereatmg aeeoant of Doniphan'a expedition, aee
<« DoDiphan'a Expeditbn," bj J. T. Hog^e^ Pnbiahed bj J. A. Jamea
iL Co., CindimatL
\\
EBTURN8 TO THB UNITED STATES. 109
in snow and in rain, and in hot deserts, — amidst the homes
of civilization and the wilds of savages, — amidst the fires
of battle, the sports of the camp, and the adventures of
the wild wilderness, pursued their unchecked career for
five thousand miles ! Nor was this all. One detachment
of this same corps, previous to the departure of the main
body from Santa F6, had marched another thousand miles
in still Mrilder scenes and greater adventure. This was
the detachment of Lt. Col. Gilpin, who was sent out
towards the Rocky Mountains to overawe the Navajos
Indians. This was a tribe which, unlike most tribes of
Indians, lived in the pastoral state, and inhabited the great
unknown country lying between New Mexico and the Col-
orado of the south. Geheral Kearney had promised the
New Mexicans protection from the incursions of this tribe.
To carry out this intention, Gilpin's detachment was sent
into their country. This command actually crossed the
Rocky Mountains, and descended into the valley of the
Colorado of the south. Their march was full of new
scenery, new dangers, and new adventures. Tribes of
Indians unknown to the people of the United States were
found and observed. The grizly bear, supposed to inhabit
chiefly the polar regions, was here found a conunon tenant
of the mountains. After this party had thus pursued its
novel and most interesting march through the spurs and
rivers, and wild tribes and wilder animals of the Rocky
Mountains, it returned in time to join the long and adven-
turous march of Doniphan to Chihuahua and the Gulf of
Mexico.^
' Stfe the " Expedition of Doniphan/' by J. T. Hughes, mentioned be-
fore, rhe namtiTe of Bfr. Hnghef may be relied upon for accuracy, and
m a {laphic aocoont of theae remarkable adyentores.
K
110 SCOTT ORDERED TO MEXICO.
CHAPTER VII.
General Scott ordered to Mexico — Letter of the Secretary of War to
General Taylor. — Letter of the Secretary of War to General Scott^—
General Scott leavea Waahington^ — Wa Letter to General Taylor.^*
Plan of appointing a Lientenant-GeneraL — Scott reacbea the Rio
Grande^ — Condition of things there. — ^Withdraw! a part of Taylor*!
Troope in compliance with the Orden of the War DqMulment
On the l8th of November, General Scott was directed
by the Secretary of War to hold himself in readiness to
assume the command of the army destined to make a de-
scent on Vera Cruz. The purpose of organizing a force
for this object was communicated to General Taylor in a
letter from the Secretary of War, dated Washington, Oct,
22, 1846:
" I informed you in my last despatch, that in connec-
tion with an invasion of Tamaulipas and attack on Tam-
pico, an expedition against Vera Crui was then under
advisement. Upon a more full consideration of the sub-
ject, it is believed that Vera Cruz may be taken, and
having possession of that city, the castle of San Juan de
Ulloa might possibly be reduced or compelled to surren-
der. If the expedition could go forth without the object
being known to the enemy, it is supposed that four thou-
sand troops would be sufficient for the enterprise, re-
ceiving as they would the co-operation of our naval force
in the gulf ; but at least fifUen hundred or two thousand of
them should be of the regular armjff ami tmder the command
SCOTT ORDERED TO MEXICO. Ill
o/* officers best calculated for such an undertaking. In
looking at the diBposition of the troops, it appears to be
scarcely possible to get the requisite number of regulars
without drawing some of those now with you at Monterey, or
on the way to that place. Should you decide against hold-
ing military possession of any place in Coahuila or Chi-
huahua, and order the troops under General Wool to join
you, it is presumed that the requisite force for the expe-
dition to Vera Cruz could be detached without interfering
with your plans of operation.
" You will therefore, unless it materially interferes with
your own plan of operations, or weakens you too much in
your present position, make the necessary arrangements
for having four thousand men, of whom fifteen hundred or
two thousand should be regular troops, ready to embark
for Vera Cruz, or such other destination as may be given
them, at the earliest practicable period. The place of
embarkation will probably be the Brazos Santiago, or in
that vicinity."
On the 23d of November General Scott received the
following order from the Secretary of War : —
Wak Depaktmxmt, Washington, )
Norember 33d, 1846. S
Sir — ^The President, several days since, communicated in
person to you his orders to repair to Mexico, to take the com-
mand of the forces there assembled, and particularly to organ-
ize and set on foot an expedition to operate on the Gulf coasti
if, on arriving at the theatre of action, you shall deem it to be
practicable. It is not proposed to control your operations by
definite and positive instructions, but you are lefi to prosecute
them as your judgment, under a full view of all the circum-
stances, shall dictate. The work is befi>re you, and the
] 12 MAKES THK ARRANGEMENTS.
means provided, or to be provided, for accomplishing it, are
committed to you, in the full confidence that you will use
them to the best advantage.
The objects which it is desirable to obtain have been in-
dicated, and it is hoped that you will have the requisite force
to accomplish them.
Of this you must be the judge, when preparations are
made, and the time for action arrived.
Very respectfully,
Your obedient servant,
W. L. Marct,
Secretary of War.
GlNIRAL WiNFIBLO ScOTT.
General Scott immediately made all the arrangements
to carry the plan into full effect. The requisite number
of transports were to be provided, surf-boats for the land-
ing of the troops constructed, a train of siege ordnance
was to be collected and sent forward, and ten new regi-
ments were to be added to the line of the army, at the
earliest possible moment after the meeting of Congress.
In a very few days all the preliminary arrangements were
completed, and General Scott left Washington on the
24t'h November, in the full belief that he enjoyed the con-
fidence of the government, and that the conduct of the
war, under general instructions, had been entirely confided
to his discretion and judgment.
The only reluctance which he felt in accepting the high
trusts confided to him by the President, arose from an un-
willingness to interfere, in the slightest degree, with the
command of an old friend and brother soldier ; and this
feeling was strongly expressed to General Taylor in a let-
ter written from New York, November 25th, 1846*
SCOTT's letter to general TAYLOR. 113
'* I left Washington late in the day yesterday, and ex-
pect to embark for New Orleans the 30th inst. By the
12th of December I may be in that city, at Point Isabel
the 17th, and Gamargo, say the 23d — in order to be with-
m easy corresponding distance from you. It is not prob-
able that I may be able to visit Monterey, and circum-
stances may prevent your coming to me. I shall much
regret not having an early opportunity of felicitating you
in person upon your many brilliant achievements ; but we
may meet somewhere in the interior of Mexico.
" I am not coming, my dear general, to supersede you
in the immediate command on the line of operations ren-
dered illustrious by you and your gallant army. My pro-
posed theatre is different. You may imagine it ; and I
wish very much that it were prudent, at this distance, to
tell you all that I expect to attempt or hope to execute.
I have been admonished that despatches have been lost,
and I have no special messenger at hand. Your imagi-
nation will be aided by the letters of the Secretary of
War, conveyed by Mr. Armibtead, Major Graham, and
Mr. M'Lane.
" But, my dear general, I shall be obliged to take from
you most of the gallant officers and men, (regulars and
volunteers,) whom you have so long and so nobly com-
manded. I am afraid that I shall, by imperious nece»
sity — the approach of yellow fever on the Gulf coast — re
duce you, for a time, to stand on the defensive. This
will be infinitely painful to you, and, for that reason, dis-
tressing to me. But I rely upon your patriotism to sub-
mit to the temporary sacrifice with cheerfulness. No
man can better afibrd to do so. Recent victories place
you on the high eminence ; and I even flatter myself tliat
k2 8
] 14 SCOTT's LXTTEE to GElfERAL TAYLOR.
any benefit that may result to me, personally, from the
unequal division of troops alluded to, will lessen the pain
of your consequent inactivity.
" You will be aware of the recent call for nine regi-
ments of new volunteers, including one of Texas horse.
The President may soon ask for many more ; and we are
not without Rbpe that Congress may add ten or twelve to
the regular establishment. These, by the spring, say
April, may, by the aid of large bounties, be in the field —
should Mexico not earlier propose terms of accommoda-
tion ; and, long before the spring, (March,) it is probable
you will be again in force to resume offensive operations.
" It was not possible for me to find time to write from
Washington, as I much desired. I only received an inti-
mation to hold myself in preparation for Mexico, on the
18th instant. Much has been done towards that end, and
more remains to be executed.
" Your detailed report of the operations at Monterey,
and reply to the Secretary's despatch, by Lieutenant
Armistead, were both received two days after I was in-
structed to proceed south."
Before ordering General Scott to Mexico, as subse-
quently appeared by the statements of Senator Benton,
the President had decided to create the ofiice of lieuten-
ant-general, and thus supersede, not only the scar-marked
hero of Chippewa and Niagara, but also to tear the fresh
laurels of Palo Alto and Resaca de la Palma from the
brow of the gallant Taylor. After this plan had been
finally arranged, the President sent for General Scott, and
confided to him the command of the army in Mexico, and
gave to him the most solemn assurance of his confidence
and support.
, SCOTT BAILS FOR NEW ORLEANS. 115
Immediately on the opening of Congress the project of
creating a higher military grade was brought forward, and
the friends of generals Scott and Taylor saw with alarm,
that a plan was maturing by which they were both to be
X degraded to subordinate stations, and the entire direction
of affiurs in Mexico confided to other and untried hands.
The friends of General Scott now saw thatnis apprehen-
sions of an attack " from the rear," and which had been
frankly expressed in his former letters, were indeed but
too well founded ; and that notwithstanding the assurance
given on his departure from Washington for the army, of
the full and cordial support of the goyemment, the plan
of wresting from him the command, at the earliest pos-
sible day, was then matured, and ready for speedy execu-
tion. In view of all the circumstances, it is, pterhaps, not
uncharitable to suppose that he was selected for tiiat com-
mand, for the purpose of stirring up a spirit of rivalry be-
tween his friends and those of General Taylor, and thus
affording a plausible pretext for superseding them both.
On the 30th of November General Scott sailed from
New York, in the fullest confidence that the government
was acting in good faith, and that every means would be
famished him for the prosecution of the war. Little did
he then suppose, that before he could reach the theatre of
active operations the government which had selected and
sent him, would attempt to degrade him in the eyes of
the world, by declaring, in effect, that he was unfit for
the very place to which he had been so recently ap-
pointed.
With the generous confidence of a brave soldier, who
had ofteR met the enemy in deadly conflict, he received
through the President the plighted faith of the nation that
116 8C0TT RBACHC8 THK RIO GRANDB.
all was right. The President saw hiai depart in the ful-
ness of this confidence, and yet before he reached the
army, the proposition to supersede him was already there.
Yes, the very army into which he was to breathe the in-
spiration of hope — which he was to train and prepare for
the deadly conflicts that awaited them — was informed, in
advance, that the President had no confidence in their
commander-in-Ghief.
General Scott reached the Rio Grande about the first
of January. Early in the month it became evident that
some of the principal arrangements for the attack on Vera
Cruz were not likely, to be carried out by the government.
The bill for raising the ten additional regiments was lost
sight of by the administration, in the desire to carry tlieir
favorite project of placing a political partisan at the head
of the army ; and this bill, which ought to have been
passed in the first week of the session, was not finally
disposed of till a day or two before the adjournment.
What was the condition of things in Mexico at this
critical period ?
Santa Anna, with a force of twenty-two thousand men,
was at San Luis Potosi, a fortified city containing sixty
thousand inhabitants, and about equally distant from Mon-
terey, Vera Cruz, and Mexico.
General Taylor was in the vicinity of Monterey, in the
command of a force of about eighteen thousand men, oc
cupying the long line from Saltillo to Camargo, and thence
to the mouth of the Rio Grande, where General Scott
had just arrived with a small force, for the purpose of at-
Uicking Vera Cruz as soon as possible. He well knew
that the vomilo makes its appearahce there in the early
spring, and that delay would be fatal. The transports.
ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE CAMPAIGN. 117
stores, and munitions, were beginning to arriye. What
was to be done ? Was the expedition against Vera Cruz
to be abandoned, or was General Scott to go forward and
do the best he could under circumstances so discouraging ?
He adopted the latter alternative. He reviewed all the
disposable forces within his command, and carefully
weighed chances and probabilities. He forwarded to
General Taylor a full plan of his proposed operations.
By the capture and assassination of Lieutenant Ritchie,
the bearer of these despatches, the plans were fully dis*
closed to Santa Anna, and he became apprized that Vera
Cruz was to be the main point of attack. At Vera Cruz,
and its immediate vicinity, there were six or seven thou-
sand men, and a much larger number could be collected
from the adjoining country on a short notice. Would
Santa Anna break up his camp at San Luis Potosi, and
march on Vera Cruz — fill the city and castle with his
best troops, and oppose the landing of General Scott with
a selected army of forty thousand men ? Or, was he like-
ly to abandon the town and castle to their fate, thus leav-
ing open the road to Mexico, and march with his whole
force against General Taylor, over a desert of one hun-
dred and fifty miles, with a certainty of having to encoun-
ter his enemy either in the defiles of the mountains or
from behind the impregnable battlements of Monterey ?
Under such circumstances it became the duty of Gen-
eral Scott so to divide the forces of the Rio Grande as
would be most likely to meet any contingency that might
arise. He collected the regular infantry — for these might
be necessary to carry with the bayonet the fortified city
and castle of Vera Cruz. He left within the limits of
General Taylor's command, about ten thousand volun-
118
DIVISION OF THE FORCES.
teers and several companies of the best artillery of the
regular army. These General Taylor might have con-
centrated at Monterey, and General Scott suggested to
him, in his instructions, to do so, if it became necessary.
With this comparatively small force. General Taylor noi
only maintained all the posts within his command, but
with the one half of it achieved the memorable victory of
Buena Vista.
- General Scott assigned twelve thousand men to the ex-
pedition against Vera Cruz, and had Santa Anna concen-
trated his forces at that point, the disparity of jp^pmbers
would have been much greater than at Buena Vista.
These remarks are not made for the purpose of comparing
the skill, or the conduct, or the claims to public gratitude
of the two distinguished generals who have so well fulfil-
led every trust reposed in them by their country ; but sim-
ply to show that in the disposition of the forces made by
General Scott, he did not take a larger portion for his own
command than the interests of the service imperatively
demanded.
OBNSBAL Taylor's motbmxnti. 119
CHAPTER VIII.
General Taylof'ii Moyements. — Taylor's Porition. — Santa Anna's Ad-
vance^ — Importance of the event — Battle of Buena Vista. — Retreat of
the Mezicamk— Taylor's Official Account^ — Santa Anna's Report
In pursuance of orders from the War Department,
General Taylor, in the month of November, ordered the
divisions of Generals Twiggs, Quitman, and Pillow from
Monterey to Victoria, for the purpose of joining at Tam-
pico the expedition against Vera Cruz. In the latter part
of December, General Patterson's division left Matamoras
for the same destination, by the route through Victoria ; > ''
while General Worth's division proceeded from Saltillo to
Comargo, thence to Matamoras, and joined General Scott
at the Brazos.
At Victoria, on the 30th of December, 1 846, General
Taylor received information of Scott's departure for Mex-
ico. Santa Anna, in the mean time, was at San Luis
Potosi, with an army of twenty-two thousand men.
In the latter part of January, 1 847, General Taylor left
Victoria and established his headquarters at Monterey,
and early in February his whole force at this point, inclu-
ding the volunteers who had recently joined him, amounted
to between six and seven thousand men.
Soon after reaching Monterey, he received intelligence
120 GENERAL TAYLOR'S POSITION.
that a party of dragoons under Colonel May had been
surprised at Encarnacion, in the early part of February,
and that Cassius M. Clay and Majors Borland and
Gaines were taken prisoners by General Minon, at the
head of fifteen hundred men. These circumstances
induced General Taylor to believe that Santa Anna in-
tended advancing with his whole army, and he determined
to proceed at once to Saltillo and give him battle.
Leaving a force of fifteen hundred men, he departed
from Monterey on the 31st of January, and reached Sal-
tillo on the 2d of February. Having, in the mean time,
been reinforced by five hundred men, his effective force
was about five thousand. On the 4th of February he
advanced to Agua Nueva, a strong position on the road
leading from Saltillo to San Luis. Here he remained
until the 21st, when he received intelligence that Santa
Anna was advancing with his whole army. Having
carefully examined the strong mountain-passes, he de-
cided that Buena Vista, a strong mountain-pass eleven
miles nearer Saltillo, was the most favorable point
to make a stand against a force so overwhelming. He
therefore fell back to that place ; and having formed his
army in order of battle, calmly awaited the approach of
the enemy.
The position of the American army at this moment
was most critical. The regular troops had been with-
drawn, with the exception of four companies of artillery,
and even these had been filled up by new levies. The
volunteers, of which the army was mainly composed,
had received some instruction in the regular duties of
the camp, but had not attained that perfection in disci-
pline which gives confidence in military operations.
\\
CHOOSES HIS JBATTLE-UROUND. 121
«
The army of Santa Anna was admirably equipped.
It was composed of the flower of the Mexican nation,
and numbered more than four to one of the army which
it came to conquer. Hope and dire necessity both
urged them to victory. Those who remembered that
the American arms had triumphed at Palo Alto, Kesaca
de la Palma, and Monterey, well knew that the regular
soldiers, who had contributed so largely to those victories,
had been ordered to distant fields of operations ; and that
even courage and enthusiasm, without discipline, are un-
availing against multiplied numbers.
The commander, Santa Anna, had well considered the
advantages he would derive from this^ movement, if suc-
cessful, and all the chances were in his favor. Could
he have driven General Taylor from his position at Buena
Vista, he would have swept down to Comargo, and over
the whole valley of the Rio Grande. All the munitions
of war, provisions, camp equipage, and public property
of every description would have fallen into his hands,
and the American troops would have been driven from
every inch of ground which they occupied in the Mexican
territory.
If defeated, Santa Anna well knew that his moral
power over his army would be broken. The desert in
his rear, and over which he had just passed, could not
be traversed by a retreating and dispirited army without
great loss and suffering. The fate of his country seemed
suspended on the issue of a single battle. His own fame,
his place in history, were both to be decided in the com-
ing conflict.
On the 22d of February, a day memorable in American
history, General Taylor saw the Mexican host approach
L
PLAN OF Th¥ battle ||
OP
iiftU, Carf. EiyiHiri.
IMPORTANCE OF THE RESULT. 123
the narrow mountain-pass which he had selected as the
Thermopylae of his army.
The position of tlie two armies at, and soon after the
commencement of the battle, is shown by the map. The
enemy's right, opposite to our left, is concentrated in col-
umns of attack behind a spur of the mountain, and his
riflemen are on the side of the inaccessible mountain firing
across a deep gully at our riflemen on the same moun-
tain. A small eminence and spur of the mountain be-
tween them is unoccupied by either party. On our ex-
treme left is the 2d Indiana regiment, supported by three
pieces of artillery, one of which was lost in the onset of
the morning; next, is the 2d lUinois regiment, with a
piece of artillery on either flank ; next, two pieces of ar-
tillery and a squadron of dragoons ; next, two pieces of
artillery and the 2d Kentucky foot ; next, four companies
of the 1st Illinois regiment on a spur of the plateau, at
the foot of which is a parapet across the road, behind
which are four pieces of artillery and two companies of
the 1st Illinois regiment. A little to the rear is the 8d In-
diana regiment on an eminence, behind which is a squad-
ron of dragoons ; and still further to the rear, near the
rancho of Buena Vista, is the 1 st Mississippi regiment,
and one piece of artillery just arrived from Saltillo under
General Taylor. In rear of our extreme left, on the edge
of the plateau, are the Kentucky and Arkansas cavalry.
General Taylor, in reviewing his army, could not but
recollect that the troops which formed his first encamp-
ment at Corpus Christi, and had shared with him the
toils and triumphs of the campaign of 1846, were not
in his line of battle. New men had come to replace
them. Would these, as those, stand firm amid sheets of
124 AMERICAN ARMX VICTORIOUS.
flame, the roar of artillery, and the impetuous rush of the
charge ? Were llicy wortliy successors of the old guards,
who would die at their posts, facing the enemy ? These
are questions which must have agitated the mind of the
commander on the eve of that great battle. Fortunately
for the country they have been all rightly answered. His
own great example appears to have supplied the want of
discipline, and inspired the troops with heroic enthusiasm.
The volunteer is changed into the regular soldier; the
citizen of yesterday becomes the veteran of to-day ; and
the American arms are everywhere triumphant.
The solid Mexican phalanx of twenty-t^ thsrfffand
men, armed and equipped for victory, have melted away
before the steady fire of the artillery, and the deadly aim
of the American rifle. When the last struggle for victory
is made, and Santa Anna rallies his broken columns for a
final charge ; when the American regiments occupying
the advance yield to superior numbers and fall back in
confusion on the reserves, and the day seems lost ; the
commanding general hurries to the point where the battle
is to be decided, orders the artillery to face about and
unlimber, and gives the emphatic order, ''A little more
grape, Captain Bragg !*' This saves the day. The Mex-
ican columns now waver and halt. The curtains of night
close down over the battle-field ; the wounded and the
dying rest in their gory bed ; and the wearied ofilicer and
exhausted soldier sink together to repose.
The importance of this victoiy to the American arms
cannot be exaggerated. It secured the whole frontier of
the Hio Grande, and struck terror and dismay into the
hearts of the Mexican nation. It was, in fact, the first
great turning point of the war.
GENERAL TAYLOR's OFFICIAL REPORT. 12A
To the commander, General Taylor, the thanks of the
country have been tendered in many ways for his signal
ability, courage, and steadiness under circumstances so
critical and trying. Th^ general himself, with a magna-
nimity and modesty equalled only by his merits, has
expressed his obligations to those who acted under him,
of all grades of service. To them he has said that the
country owes much. Their patient endurance of fatigue
and privation ; their cheerful submission to the rigorous
discipline of the camp ; their noble bearing in the hour
of danger ; their gallant conduct on the battle-field, gave
to the army its efficiency and ensured its final triumph.
The following is General Taylor's official Report : ,
" Hkadquaeterb, Amnr or Occupation, >
- Agaa Nueya, March 6th, 1847. i
•• To THE Hon. Secretary of War :
" Sir : — I have the honor to submit a detailed report
of the operations of the forces under my command,
which resulted in the engagement of Buena Vista, the
repulse of the Mexican army, and the reoccupation of
this position.
'^ The information which reached me of the advance
and concentration of a heavy Mexican force in my front,
had assumed such a probable form as to induce a special
examination far beyond the reach of our pickets to ascer-
tain its correctness. A small party of Texan spies, under
Major McCullough, despatched to the hacienda of Encar-
nacion, thirty miles from this, on tlie route to San Luis
Potosi, had reported a cavalry force of unknown strength
l2
126 TAYLOR S OFFICIAL DESPATCH.
at that place. On the 20ih of February, a strong recon-
noissance, under Lieutenant-colonel May, was despatched
to the hacienda of Hecliondo, while Major McCuUough
made another examination of Encamacion. The result
of these expeditions left no doubt that the enemy was in
large force at Encarnacion, under the orders of General
Santa Anna, and that he meditated a forward movement
and attack upon our position.
''As the camp of Agua Nueva could be turned on
either flank, and as the enemy's force was greatly supe-
rior to our own, particularly in the arm .of cavalry, I de-
termined, after much consideration, to take up a position
about eleven miles in rear, and there await the attaek.
The army broke up its camp and marched at noon on the
21st, encamping at the new position a little in front of the
hacienda oT Buena Vista. With a small force I proceed-
ed to Saltillo, to make some necessary arrangements for
the defence of the town, leaving Brigadier-General Wool
in the immediate command of the troops.
" Before these arrangements were completed, on the
morning of the 22d, I was advised that the enemy was iu
sight, advancing. Upon reaching the ground it was found
that his cavalry advance was in our front, having marcl^ed
from Encarnacion, as we have since learned, at eleven
o'clock the day previous, and driving in a mounted force
left at Agua Nueva to cover the removal of public stores.
Our troops were in position, occupying a line, of remark-
able strength. The road at this point becomes a narrow
defile, the valley on its right being rendered quite imprac-
ticable for artillery by a succession of deep and impassa-
ble gullies, while on the left a succession of rugged ridges
and precipitous ravines extends far back towards the moun
I
Taylor's official despatch. 127
tain which bounds the Yalley. The features of the ground
were such as nearly to paralyze the artillery and cavalry
of the enemy, while his infantry could not derive all the
advantage of its numerical superiority. In this position
we prepared to receive him. Captain Washington's bat-
tery (Fourth artillery) was posted to command the road,
while the First and Second Illinois regiments, under
Colonels Hardin and Bissell, each eight companies, (to
the latter of which was attached Captain Conner's com-
pany of Texas volunteers,) and the Second Kentucky,
under Colonel McKee, occupied the crests of the ridges
on the left and in rear. The Arkansas and Kentucky
regiments of cavalry, commanded by Colonels Yell
and H. Marshall, occupied the extreme left near the
base of the mountain, while the Indiana brigade, under
Brigadier-General Lane, (composed of the Second and
Third regiments, under Colonels Bowles and Lane,) the
Mississippi riflemen, under Colonel Davis, the squadrons
of the First and Second dragoons, under Captain Steene
and Lieutenant-colonel May, and the light batteries of
Captains Sherman and Bragg, Third artillery, were held
in reserve.
" At eleven o'clock I received from Greneral Santa An-
■»
na a summons to surrender at discretion, which, with a
copy of my reply, I have already transmitted. The ene-
my still forebore his attack, evidently waiting for the arri-
val of his rear columns, which could be distinctly seen by
our look-outs as they approached the field. A demonstra-
tion made on his left caused me to detach the Second
Kentucky regiment and a section of artillery to our right,
in which position they bivouacked for the night. In the
mean time the Mexican light troops had engaged ours an
128 Taylor's official despatch.
the extreme left, (composed of parts of the Kentucky and
Arkansas cavalry dismounted, and a rifle battalion from the
Indiana brigade under Major Gorman, the whole command-
ed by Colonel Marshall,) and kept up a sharp fire, climbing
the mountain side, and apparently endeavoring to gain our
flank. Three pieces of Captain Wasliington's battery had
been detached to the left» and were supported by the
Second Indiana regiment. An occasional shell was thrown
by the enemy into this part of our line, but without eflect.
The skirmishing of the light troops was kept up with tri-
fling loss on our part until dark, when I became convinced
that no serious attack would be made before the morning,
and returned, with the Mississippi regiment and squadron
of Second dragoons, to Sallillo. The troops bivouacked
without fires, and laid upon their arms. A body of cav-
aLry, some fifteen hundred strong, had been visible all day
in rear of the town, having entered the valley through a
narrow pass, east of the city. This cavalry, commanded
by General Minon, had evidently been thrown in our rear
to break up and harass our retreat, and perhaps make
some attempt against the town, if practicable. The city
was occupied by four excellent companies of Illinois vol-
unteers, under Major Warren, of the First regiment. A
field-work, which commanded most of the approaches,
was garrisoned by Captain Webster's company. First
artillery, and armed with two twenty-four pound how-
itzers, while the train and head-quarter camp was guarded
by two companies of Mississippi riflemen, under Captain
Rogers, and a fie]~l-piece, commanded by Captain Shover,
Third artillery. Having made these dispositions for the
protection of the rear. I proceeded on the morning of the
23d to Buena Vista, ordering forward all the other avail-
\\
Taylor's official despatch. 129
able troops. The action had commenced before my arri-
▼al on the field.
" During the evening and night of the 22d, the enemy
had thrown a body of light troops on the mountain side,
with the purpose of outflanking our left; and it was
here that the action of the 2dd commenced at an early
hour. Our riflemen, under Colonel Marshall, who had
been reinforced by three companies under Major Trail,
Second Illinois volunteers, maintained their ground hand-
somely against a greatly superior force, holding themselves
under cover, and using their weapons with deadly eflect.
'About eight o'clock, a strong demonstration was made
against the centre of our position, a heavy column moving
along the road. This force was soon dispersed by a few
rapid and well-directed shots from Captain Washington's
battery. In the mean time the enemy was concentrating
a large force of infantry and cavalry under cover of the
ridges, with the obvious intention of forcing our left,
which was posted on an extensive plateau. The Second
Indiana and Second Illinois regiments formed this part of
our line, the former covering three pieces of light artil-
lery, under the orders of Captain O'Brien — Brigadier-
General Lane being in the immediate command. In
order to bring his men within eflective range. General
Lane ordered the artillery and Second Indiana regiment
forward. The artillery advanced within musket-range of
a heavy body of Mexican infantry, and was served against
it with great eflect, but without being able to check its
advance. The infantry ordered to its support had falloi
back in disorder, being exposed, as well as the battery,
not only to a severe fire of small-arms from the front, but
also to a murderous cross-fire of grape and canister, from
9
180 TATL0R*8 OFFICIAL DESPATCH.
a Mexican battery on the left. Captain O'Brien found it
impossible to retain his position without support, but was
only able to withdraw two of his pieces, all the horses and
cannoniers of the third piece being killed or disabled.
The Second Indiana regiment, which bad fallen back as
stated, could not be ralhed, and took no farther part in the
action, except a handful of men, who, under its gallant
colonel, Bowles, joined the Mississippi regiment, and did
good service, and those fugitives who, at a later period in
the day, assisted in defending the train and depot at Buena
Vista. This portion of our line having given way, and the
enemy appearing in overwhelming force against our left
flank, the light troops which had rendered such good ser-
vice on the mountain were compelled to withdraw, which
they did, for the most part, in good order. Many, how-
ever, were not rallied until they reached the depot at
"Buena Vista, to the defence of which they afterwards con-
tributed.
" Col. Bissell's regiment, (Second Illinois,) which had
been joined by a section of Captain Sherman's battery,
had become completely outflanked, and was compelled to
fall back, being entirely unsupported. The enemy was
now pouring masses of infantry and cavalry along the base
of the mountain on our left, and was gaining our rear in
great force. At tliis moment I arrived upon the field.
The Mississippi regiment had been directed to the left
before reaching the position, and immediately came into
action i^ainst the Mexican infantry which had turned our
flbnk. The Second Kentucky regiment, and a section
of artillery under Captain Bragg, had previously been or-
dered from the right to reinforce our left, and arrived at a
most opportune moment. That regiment, and a portico
\\
Taylor's official despatch. 181
of the First Illinois, under Colonel Hardin, gallantly droTe
the enemy, and recovered a portion of the ground we had
lost. The batteries of Captains Sherman and Bragg were
in position on the plateau, and did much execution,* not
only in front, but particularly upon the masses which had
gained our rear. Discovering that the enemy was heavily
pressing upon the Mississippi regiment, the Third In-
diana regiment, under Colonel Lane, was despatched to
strengthen that part of our line which formed a crotchet
perpendicular to the first line of battle. At the same time
Lieutenant Kilbum, with a piece of Captain Bragg's bat-
tery, was directed to support the infantry there engaged.
The action was for a long time warmly sustained at that
point — the enemy making several efforts both with in-
fiEuitry and cavalry against our line, and being always re-
pulsed with heavy loss. I had placed all the regular
cavalry and Captain Pike's squadron of Arkansas horse
under the orders of Brevet Lieutenant-colonel Mailiflhbc«
directions to hold in check the enemy's column, still ad-^
vancing to the rear along the base of the mountain, which
was done in conjunction with the Kentucky and Arkansas
cavalry, under Colonels Marshall and Yell.
" In the mean time our left, which was still strongly
threatened by a superior force, was farther strengthened
by the detachment of Captain Bragg's and a portion of
Captain Sherman's batteries to that quarter. The con-
centration of artillery-fire upon the masses of the enemy
along the base of the mountain, and the determined resist-
ance offered by the two regiments opposed to them, had
created confusion in their ranks, and some of the corps
attempted to effect a retreat upon their main line of battle.
The squadron of the First dragoons, under Lieutenant
132 Taylor's official despatch. '
Rucker, was now ordered up the deep ravine which these
retreating corps were ehdeaToring to cross, in order to
charge and disperse them. The squadron proceeded to the
point indicated, but could not accomplish the object, being
eiposed to a heavy fire from a battery established to cover
the retreat of those corps. While the squadron was de-
tached on this service, a large body of the enemy was ob-
served to concentrate on our extreme left, apparently with
the view of making a descent upon the hacienda of Buena
Vista, where our train and baggage were deposited.
Lieutenant-colonel May was ordered to tlie support of
that point, with two pieces of Captain Sherman'» battery
under Lieutenant Reynolds. In the mean time, the scat-
tered forces near the hacienda, composed in part of Majors
Trail and Gorman's commands, had been to some extent
organized under the advice of Major Munroe, chief of ar-
tillery, with the assistance of Major Morrison, volunteer
Haffi and were posted to defend the position. Before our
cavalry had reached the hacienda, that of the enemy had
made its attack ; having been handsomely met by the Ken-
lucky and Arkansas cavalry under Colonels Marshall and
Yell. The Mexican column immediately divided, one
portion sweeping by the depot, where it received a de-
structive fire from the force which had collected there,
and then gaining the mountain opposite, under a fire from
Lieutenant Reynolds' section, the remaining portion re-
gaining the base of the mountain on our left. In the
charge at Buena Vista, Colonel Yell fell gallantly at the
head of his regiment ; we also lost Adjutant Vaughan, of
the Kentucky cavalry — a young officer of much promise.
Lieutenant-colonel May, who had been rejomed by the
squadron of the First dragoons and by portions of the
\\
\
Taylor's official despatch. 133
Arkansas and Indiana troops, under Lieutenant-colonel
Roane and Major Gorman, now approached the base of
the mountain, holding in check the right flank of the ene-
my, upon whose masses, crowded in the narrow gorges
and ravines, our artillery was doing fearful execution.
" The position of that portion of the Mexican army
which bad gained our rear was now very critical, and it
seemed doubtful whether it could regain the main body.
At this moment I received from General Santa Anna a
message by a staff officer, desiring to know what I want-
ed. I immediately despatched Brigadier-general Wool
to the Mexican general-in-chief, and sent orders to cease
firing. Upon reaching the Mexican lines, General Wool
could not cause the enemy to cease their fire, and accord-
ingly returned without having an interview. The extreme
right of the enemy continued its retreat along the base of
the mountain, and finally, in spite of all our efforts, effect-
ed a junction with the remainder of the army.
** During the day, the cavalry of General Minon had
ascended the elevated plain above Saltillo, and occupied
the road from the city to the field of battle, where they
intercepted several of our men. Approaching the town,
they were fired upon by Captain Webster, from the re-
doubt occupied by his company, and then moved off to-
wards the eastern side of the valley, and obliquely towards
Buena Vista. At this time. Captain Shover moved rapid-
ly forward with his piece, supported by a miscellaneous
command of mounted volunteers, and fired several shots
at the cavalry with great effect. They were driven into
the ravines which lead to the lower valley, closely pursued
oy Captain Shover, who was farther supported by a piece
of Captain Webster's battery, under Lieutenant Donald-
134 tatlor's official dbspatch.
fon, which had advanced from the redoubt, supported by
Captain Wheeler's company of Illinois Tolunteers. The
enemy made one or two efforts to charge the artillery, but
was finally driven back in a confused mass, and did not
again appear upon the plain.
" In the mean time,* the firing had partially ceased upon
the principal field. The enemy seemed to confine his
efibrts to the protection of his artillery, and I had left the
plateau for a moment, when I was recalled thither by a
very heavy musketry fire. On regaining that position, I
discovered that our infantry (Illinois and Second Ken-
tucky) had engaged a greatly superior force of the ene-
my—evidently his reserve — and that they had been over-
whelmed by numbers. The moment was most critical.
Captain O'Brien, with two pieces, had sustained this
heavy charge to the last, and was finally obliged to leave
his guns on the field — ^his infantry support being entirely
routed. Captain Bragg, who had just arrived from the
left, was ordered at once into battery. Without any in-
fantry to support him, and at the imminent risk of losing
his guns, this officer came rapidly into action, the Mexi-
can line being but a few yards from the muzzle of his
pieces. The first discharge of canister caused the enemy
to hesitate ; the second and third drove him back in dis-
order and saved the day. The Second Kentucky regi-
ment, which had advanced beyond supporting distance in
this affair, was driven back and closely pressed by the
enemy's cavalry. Taking a ravine which led in the
direction of Captain Washington's battery, their pursuers
became exposed to his fire, which soon checked and drove
them back with loss. In the mean time the rest of our
artilleiy had taken position on the plateau, covered by the
\\
Taylor's official dbbpatch. 135
Mississippi and Ttiird Indiana regiments, the former of
which had reached the ground in time to pour a fire into
the right flank of the enemy, and thus contribute to his
repulse.
" In this last conflict we had the misfortune to sus-
tain a very heavy loss. Colonel Hardin, First Illinois,
and Colonel McKee and Lieutenant-colonel Clay, Second
Kentucky regiment, fell at this time, while gallantly lead-
ing their commands.
** No farther attempt was made by the enemy to force
our position, and the approach of night gave an opportu-
nity to pay proper attention to the wounded, and also to
refresh the soldiers, who had been exhausted by incessant
watchfulness and combat. Though the night was severe-
ly cold, the troops were compelled for the most to bivouac
without fires, expecting that morning would renew the
conflict. During the night the wounded were removed to
Saltillo, and every preparation made to receive the enemy,
should he again attack our position. Seven fresh com-
panies were drawn from the town, and Brigadier-general
Marshall, with a reinforcement of Kentucky cavalry and
four heavy guns, under Captain Prentiss, First artillery,
was near at hand, when it was discovered that the enemy
had abandoned his position during the night. Our scouts
soon ascertained that he had fallen back upon Agua Nueva.
The great disparity of numbers, and the exhaustion of our
troops, rendered it inexpedient and hazardous to attempt
pursuit. A stafi* officer was despatched to General Santa
Anna, to negotiate an exchange of prisoners, which was
satisfactorily completed on the following day. Our own
dead Were collected and buried, and the Mexican wound-
ed, of which a large number had been left upon the field.
186 Taylor's official despatch.
were removed to Saltillo, and rendered as comfortable as
circumstances would permit.
'' On the evening of the 26th, a close reconnoissance
was made of the enemy's position, which was found to be,
occupied only by a small body of cavalry, the infantry and
artillery having retreated in the direction of San Luis
Potosi. On the 27th, our troops resumed their formei
camp at Agua Nueva, the enemy's rear-guard evacuating
the place as we approached, leaving a considerable number
of wounded. It was my purpose to beat up his quarters
at Encarnacion early the next morning, but upon exami-
nation, the weak condition of the cavalry horses rendered
it unadvisable to attempt so long a march without water.
A command was finally despatched to Encarnacion, on
the Ist of March, under Colonel Belknap. Some two
hundred wounded, and about sixty Mexican soldiers were
found there, the array having passed on in the direction
of Matehuala, with greatly reduced numbers, and suf-
fering much from hunger. The dead and dying were
strewed upon the road and crowded the buildings of the
hacienda.
" The American force engaged in the action of Buena
Vista is shown, by the accompanying field report, to have
been three hundred ind thirty-four officers, and four thou-
sand four hundred and twenty-five men, exclusive of the
small command left in and near Saltillo. Of this number,
two squadrons of cavalry and ttiree batteries of light artil-
lery, making not more ttian four hundred and fifty-three
men, composed the only force of regular troops. The
strength of the Mexican army is stated by General Santa
Anna, in his summons, to be twenty thousand ; and that
estimate is confirmed by all the information since obtained
\\
tatlor's official despatch. 137
( Our loss is two hundred and sixty-seven killed, four hun-
dred and fifty-six wounded, and twenty-three missing. Of
the numerous wounded, many did not require removal to
the hospital, and it is hoped that a comparatively small
number will be permanently disabled. The Mexican loss
in killed and wounded may be fairly estimated at one
thousand and five hundred, and will probably reach two
thousand. At least five hundred of their killed were left
upon the field of battle. We have no means of ascertain-
ing the number of deserters and dispersed men from their
ranks, but it is known to be veay great.
" Our loss has been especially severe in officers, twen-
ty-eight having been killed upon the field. We have to
lament the death of Captain George Lincoln, assistant
adjutant-general, serving in the staff of General Wool — a
young officer of high bearing and approved gallantry, who
fell early in the action. No loss falls more heavily upon
the army in the field than that of Colonels Hardin and
McKee, and Lieutenant-colonel Clay. Possessing in a
remarkable degree the confidence of their commands, and
the last two having enjoyed the advantage of a military
education, I had looked particularly to them for support
in case we met the enemy. I need not say that their zeal
in engaging the enemy, and the cool and steadfast courage
with which they maintained their positions during the
day, fully realized my hopes, and caused me to feel yet
more sensibly their untimely loss.
'* I perform a grateful duty in bringing to the notice of
the government the general good conduct of the troops.
Exposed for successive nights, without fires, to the se-
verity of the weather, they were very prompt and cheer-
ful in the discharge of every duty ; and finally displayed
m2
188 Taylor's official despatch.
conspicuous steadiness and gallantry ip repulsing, at great
odds, a disciplined foe. While the brilliant success
achieved by their arms releases me from the painful ne-
cessity of specifying many cases of bad conduct before
the enemy, I feel an increased obligation to mention par-
ticular corps and officers, whose skill, coolness, and gal-
lantry in trying situations, and under a continued and
heavy fire, seem to merit particular notice.
*' To Brigadier-general Wool my obligations are espe-
cially due. The high state of discipline and instruction
of several of the volunteer regiments was attained under
his command, and to his vigilance and arduous service
before the action, and his gallantry and activity on the
field, a large share of our success may justly be attribu-
ted. During most of the engagement he was in immedi-
ate command of the troops thrown back on our left flank.
I beg leave to recommend him to the favorable notice of
the government. Brigadier-general Lane (slightly wound-
ed) was active and zealous throughout the day, and dis-
played great coolness and gallantry before the enemy.
" The services of the light artillery, always conspicu-
ous, were more than usually distinguished. Moving rap-
idly over the roughest ground, it was always in action at
the right place and the right time, and its well-directed
fire dealt destruction in the masses of the enemy. While
I recommend to particular favor the gallant conduct and
valuable services of Major Munroe, chief of artillery, and
Captains Washington, Fourth artillery, and Sherman and
Bragg, Third artillery, commanding batteries, I deem it
no more than just to mention all the subaltern officers.
They were nearly all detached at different times, and
in every situation exhibited conspicuous skill and gallantry.
V
Taylor's official despatch. 139
Captain O'Brien, Lieutenants Brent, Whiting, and Couch,
Fourth artillery, and Bryan, topographical engineers,
(slightly wounded,) were attached to Captain Washing-
ton's battery. "" Lieutenants Thomas, Reynolds, and
French, Third artillery, (severely wounded,) to that of
Captain Sherman ; and Captain Sh(f?er and Lieutenant
Kilburn, Third artillery, to that of Captain Bragg. Cap-
tain Shover, in conjunction with Lieutenant Donaldson,
First artillery, rendered gallant and important service in
repulsing the cavalry of General Minon. The regular
cavalry, under Lieutenant-colonel May, with which was
associated Captain Pike's squadron of Arkansas horse,
rendered useful service in holding the enemy in check
and in covering the batteries at several points. Captain
Steene, First dragoons, was severely wounded early in
the day, while gallantly endeavoring, with my authority,
to rally the troops which were falling to the rear.
*' The Mississippi riflemen, under Colonel Davis, were
highly conspicuous for their gallantry and steadiness, and
sustained throughout the engagement the reputation of
veteran troops. Brought into action against an immensely
superior force, they maintained themselves for a long
time unsupported and with heavy loss, and held an im-
portant part of the field until reinforced. Colonel Davis,
though severely wounded, remained in the saddle until
the close of the action. His distinguished coolness and
gallantry at the head of his regiment on this day, entitle
him to the particular notice of the government. The
Third Indiana regiment, under Colonel Lane, and a frag-
ment of the Second, under Colonel Bowles, were asso-
ciated with the Mississippi regiment during the greater
ponioo of the day» and acquitted themselves creditably
140 Taylor's official dbspatch.
in repulsing the attempts of the enemy to break that por-
tion of our line. The Kentucky cavalry, under Colonel
Marshall, rendered good service dismounted, acting as
light troops on our left, and afterwards, with a portion of
the Arkansas regiment, in meeting and dispersing the
column of cavalry ift Buena Vista. The First and Sec-
ond Illinois, and the Kentucky regiments, served immedi-
ately under my eye, and I bear a wiHing testimony to their
excellent conduct throughout the day. The spirit and
gallantry with which the First Illinois and Second Ken-
tucky engaged the enemy in the morning, restored confi-
dence to that part of the field, while the list of casualties
will show how much these three regiments suffered in
sustaining the heavy charge of the enemy in the afternoon.
Captain Conner's company of Texas volunteers, attached
to the Second Illinois regiment, fought bravely, its cap-
tain being wounded and two subalterns killed. Colonel
Bissell, the only surviving colonel of these regiments,
merits notice for his coolness and bravery on this occa-
sion. After the hll of the field-ofiicers of the First Illi-
nois and Second Kentucky regiments, the command of
the former devolved upon Lieutenant-colonel Weather-
ford ; that of the latter, upon Major Fry.
'* Regimental commanders and others who have ren-
dered reports, speak in general terms of the good con-
duct of their ofiicers and men, and have specified many
names, but the limits of this report forbid a recapitulation
of them here. I may, however, mention Lieutenants
Rucker and Campbell of the dragoons, and Captain Pike,
Arkansas cavalry, commanding squadrons; Lieutenant-
colonel Field, Kentucky cavalry; Lieutenant-colonel
Roane, Arkansas cayaLry, upon whom the command do-
Taylor's official despatch. ^^^
rolved after the fall of Colonel Yell ; Major Bradford,
Captain Sharpe, (severely wounded,) and Adjutant Grif-
fith, Mississippi regiment; Lieutenant-colonel Hadden,
Second Indiana regiment, and Lieutenant Robinson, aid-
de-camp to General Lane ; Lieutenant-colonel Weather-
foid, First Illinois regiment ; Lieutenant-colonel Morrison,
Major Trail, and Adjutant Whiteside, (severely wounded,)
Second Illinois regiment ; and Major Fry, Second Ken-
tucky regiment, as being favorably noticed for gallantry
and good conduct. Major McCulloch, quartermaster in
the volunteer service, rendered important services before
the engagement, in the command of a spy company, and
during the affair was associated with the regular cavalry.
1*0 Major Warren, First Illinois volunteers, I feel much
indebted for his firm and judicious course, while exer-
cising command in the city of Saltillo.
" The medical staff, under the able direction of Assist-
ant-surgeon Hitchcock, were assiduous in attention to the
wounded on the field, and in tlieir careful removal to the
rear. Both in these respects, and in the subsequent or-
ganization and service of the hospitals, the administration
of this department was every thing that could be wished.
" Brigadier-general Wool speaks in high terms of the
officers of his staff, and I take pleasure in mentioning
them here, having witnessed their activity and zeal upon
the field. Lieutenant and Aid*de-camp McDowell, Colo-
nel Churchill, inspector-general, Captain Chapman, as-
aistant-quartermaster. Lieutenant Sitgreaves, topograph-
ical engineers, and Captains -Howard and Davis, volun-
teer service, are conspicuously noticed by the General for
their gallantry and good conduct. Messrs. March, Ad-
dicksy PottSv Harrisooy Burgess, and Dusenbery, attached
142 Taylor's official dbspatch.
in various capacities to General Wool's headquarters, are
likewise mentioned for their intelligent alacrity in convey-
ing orders to all parts of the field.
" In conclusion, I beg leave to speak of my own staff,
to whose exertions in rallying troops and communicating
orders I feel greatly indebted. Major Bliss, assistant-
adjutant-general. Captain J. H. Eaton, and Lieutenant R.
S. Gamett, aids-de-camp, served near my person, and
were prompt and zealous in the discharge of every duty.
Major Munroe, besides rendering valuable service as chief
of artillery, was active and instrumental, as were also
Colonels Churchill and Belknap, inspectors-general, in
rallying troops and disposing them for the defence of the
train and baggage. Colonel Whiting, quartermaster-
general, and Captain Eaton, chief of the subsistence de-
partment, were engaged with the duties of their depart-
ments, and also served in my immediate staff on the field.
Captain Sibley, assistant-quartermaster, was necessarily
left with the headquarter camp near town, where his ser-
vices were highly useful. Major Mansfield and Lieuten-
ant Benham, engineers, and Captain Linuard and Lieu-
tenants Pope and Franklin, topographical engineers, were
employed before and during the engagement in making
reconnoissances, and on the field were very active in bring-
ing information and in conveying my orders to distant
points. Lieutenant Kingsbury, in addition to his proper
duties as ordnance ofiicer. Captain Chilton, assistant-
quartermaster, and Majors Dix and Coffee, served also as
extra aids-de-camp and were actively employed in the
transmission of orders. Mr. Thomas L. Crittenden, of
Kentucky, though not in service, volunteered as my aid-
de-camp on this occasion, and served with credit in that
SANTA anna's ACCOUNT. 143
capacity. Major Craig, chief of ordnance, and Surgeon
Craig, medical director, had been detached on duty from
headquarters, and did not reach the ground until the morn-
ing of the 24th — too late to participate in the action, but
in time to render useful senrices in their respective de-
partments of the staflf." •
In this battle the American arms acquired new glory,
and the commanding general won imperishable laurels.
His cool courage — his presence at every point where duty
called him — his self-possession and apparent confidence
in the final result, inspired a heroic ardor, and contributed
largely to those daring and sustained efforts which finally
turned back and overwhelmed the Mexican hosts.
We here add Santa Anna's final report :
" In my despatch from the battle-field of Angostura,
dated the 2dd, I promised to give you details of the ac-
tion of the 2dd, so soon as I should effect the movement
which our entire lack of water and of all supplies made
indispensable. In those engagements the army and the
nation have restored the lustre of their arms, by over-
coming obstacles inconceivable to all save those who wit-
nessed them. These arose, not only from the difficulties
of this contest, and of our own situation, but also from
the rigor of tiie season, and the exhaustion of the country
along an almost desert route of over fifty leagues, that
was destitute of good water, and of all save the most lim-
ited supplies.
*' The supreme government was informed by commu-
nications made before my leaving San Luis, that the army
under my command would not commence its operations
till the end of winter, as I knew by experience the severe
climate of the region, which wasiabo scant of habitationsp
144 8ANTA anna's ACCOUNT.
provisions, shelter, and even of fuel. I therefore resolved
to go on organizing, drilling, arming, and clothing the
army ; and, in a word, to put into a military shape the
forces which had just been assembled. My intentions,
however, could not be maturely realized.
" The want of pecuniary resources embarrassed all my
dispositions. The soldiers, though well disposed to com-
bat with the enemy, had been badly supplied for a month,
and would soon have been in want even of food, but that
the exertions of the commanders of corps prevented that
destitution from driving them from their ranks. While
those meritorious men were suffering all kinds of priva-
tion, certain writers, from ignorance, want of reflection,
party spirit, or, perhaps, from mistaken patriotism, were
zealously engaged in thwarting the plans which might
otherwise have proved successful. This they did by unjust
charges against the army and particular individuals, whom
they abused for not marching to the conflict, accusing
them of want of decision, and asserting that the position
of the army at San Luis was more threatening to our Ub-
erties than to the enemy. In the clubs of that capital
they labored with assiduity to make the army the instru-
ment of a revolt ; but I frustrated their intrigues by time-
ly steps. There was one writer who had the audacity to
intimate that I was in collusion with th^ enemy. Yes, I,
to whom they may attribute errors, but whose whole pre-
vious course has shown the most elevated patriotism !
Traitors are they, who seek not only to traduce me, but,
by their detraction of the army, to unnerve its vigor for
the service of the country. It seems as if a fatality di-
rects the destinies of this nation, and interdicts a unanim-
ity of the public will for its defence ; and from this fatal
SANTA anna's ^ACCOUNT. 146
blindness, the moment when every heart and every aspi-
ration should be directed to one object, is the very junc-
ture when division and distrust are disseminated. Behold
me, then, compelled by every circumstance to change my
plans. Desertion had already commenced to a shameful
extent ; and I was fully persuaded that if the scarcity
should continue, the army would be dishonorably frittered
away. I therefore resolved that, if annihilated, it should
be with glory. Having no supplies, I, to obtain them,
compromited my private fortune and the credit of myself
and friends. All this procured me the sum of one hun-
dred and eighty thousand dollars, with which I was able
to furnish the needful supplies to the army for twelve
days. I knew well the country we had to cross, and the
necessity there would be for carrying provisions ; and I
sympathized in anticipation with the soldier for what he
would endure from the rigor of the season ; but to render
good service to the country, and save its honor, I had to
overlook all this.
" The army moved from San Luis by brigades, so as to
render available the scanty resources afforded by the
country we were to cross. The force consisted of thir-
teen thousand four hundred and thirty-two infantry, divi-
ded into twenty-eight battalions; four thousand three
hundred and thirty-eight cavalry, in thirty-nine squadrons ;
and a train of artillery of three twenty-four pounders, three
sixteen-pounders, five twelve-pounders, five eight-pound-
ers, and a seven-inch howitzer, all served by four hundred
and thirteen artillerymen— ^the total being eighteen thou-
sand one hundred and thirty-three men. Of this force there
remained behind, the garrison of the works at San Luis,
and others which I allotted to the towns on the route ; at
N 10
146 SANTA anna's ACCOUNT.
also two squadrons to escort our small and only reserve
of ammunition ; a brigade of infantry, of two battalions,
under General Don Ciriaco Vasquez, which remained as
a corps of reserve in Matehuala, and of observation upon
Tula ; as also a brigade of cavalry, under General Don
Jose Urrca. The latter was intended to pass Tula, and
move through Tamaulipas to the neighborhood of Monte-
rey, so as to call the enemy's attention to that quarter.
The pomt of concentration for the brigades ought neces-
sarily to be near this place, so that in the region through
which they had to move, many troops might not be at
once thrown together. I therefore fixed on the hacienda
of Encarnacion for that point, it being, as I calculated,
the last stage but one of riiy march. I there held a review
of the urmy, which had already lost a thousand men by
sickness and desertion. The former was caused by
the scantiness and bad quality of food, and still more of
water, which was brackish as well as scarce, as also by
snow-storms and the exposure of the troops, who had al-
ways to be in bivouac and without fuel. These snow-
storms obliged me to suspend the march two days, till the
weather became more settled ; for the cold had already
caused tlie death of several men and horses, and I felt
boiind by every means to diminish the losses we were in-
curring. These hardships will account for the number of
desertions which occurred up to our arrival at Encarna-
cion, and which afterwards even increased. It must also
bo remembered, that almost the whole army had been re-
cently formed, and, as is well known, of men taken by vio-
lence from their homes.
" We had advices tliat the enemy were fortified in the
hacienda of Agua Nueva, with six thousand men and
SANTA anna's ACCOUNT. 147
thirty pieces, resolved to defend the defiles known by the
names of the passes of Canero and Agua Nueva. The
Americans did not know the precise point on which our
march was directed ; for, though they exchanged some
shots with our advance in Encamacion, and had frequent
small skirmishes with us in the above passes, they sup-
posed our troops to be scouting-parties of the first brigade
of cavalry, under Don Jose V. Minon, whom I had ad-
vanced as far as the hacienda of Poiosi. These were the
impressions when I made my dispositions.
'* It was my intention to place my forces between the
enemy and Saltillo, so as to oblige him to fight under the
disadvantage of having his communication cut off, or, if
he would not leave his works, to enable me to besiege him
in Agua Nueva. The plan might be carried out in three
different ways. One was by marching twenty leagues by
the direct road ; another by moving to the right by La
Hedionda, so as to occupy Buena Vista ; and the third,
by moving to the left by La Punta de Santa Elena, so as
to occupy the hacienda of La Banqueria, and thereafter
the road to Saltillo. The two last movements were at this
time impracticable, for they would either of them require
three or four days' march, while we were without provis-
ions, forage, or water. I therefore resolved to operate
by the direct road, force the positions, and, after passing
the last defile, make a diversion by the left, and occupy
the rancho of Encantada, with the view of obtaining
water, none of which was to be had for more than eighteen
leagues. All this was favored by the enemy's ignorance
of our march ; but misfortune still followed us. A de-
serter from the regiment of Coraceros, a native of Saltillo,
named Francisco Valdes, passed, over firom Encamacioo
148 8AMTA ANNa'b ACCOUNT.
to the enemy, and gave him information of the movement.
The execrable treason of this infamous wretch frustrated
the best combinations.
" On the 21 St, at noon, I ordered the march to com-
mence, the four light battalions, under General Don Pe-
dro Ampudia, forming the vanguard. I had not hesitated
to allow that general, and other officers who had been
court-martialed for the affair of Monterey, to participate
in these operations, not only because I did not consider
them culpable, but also on account of the zeal they mani-
fested. This brigade was followed by one of artillery, of
sixteen-pounders, with the regiments of engineers and
their train, and those by the park of the regiment of hus-
sars. Then came the First division, commanded by Gen-
eral Don Manuel Lombardini, with four twelve-pounders
and the park. The Second division, under General Don
Francisco Pacheco, followed next, with four eight-pound-
ers and their park ; after these the whole of the cavalry,
under Don Julian Juvera ; and then the remainder of the
general park and baggage, the rear being covered by a
brigade of cavalry under General Don Manuel Andrade.
''In this order of march the troops were ordered to
make the first fourteen leagues, between Encenada and a
plain called De la Guerra, which is in front of the first de-
file called the Pass of the Pinones ; and to pass the night
on that plain in the same order of column. The troops
having eaten their rations, order was given for carrying
water, as none could be met with till the day following,
after having overcome the enemy at Agua Nueva, three
leagues beyond the aforesaid pass. I, with my staff and
the regiment of engineers, occupied the front, a little be-
hind the light troops. On arriving at the plain De la
SANTA anna's ACCOUNT. 149
Guerra, I continued the march in order to pass the defile
of Pinones, which was accomplished ; and I ordered the
light brigade to take a position in the pass of Carnero,
where it had a skirmish with an advance of the enemy*
Under these dispositions we passed the night.
" At dawn on the 22d the army continued its march,
with the idea of carrying by force of arms the pass of
Agua Nueva, which 1 supposed would be defended by the
enemy ; but I found to my surprise that it had been aban-
doned. I then concluded that the American forces had
retired to their fortifications in the hacienda, to concen-
trate their defence under cover of the intrenchments,
which I had heard they had there thrown up. Under this
idea I continued the march, in order to turn by the right
to the rancho of Encantada, which, as I have before men-
tioned, is on the Saltillo road, being between that city and
Agua Nueva, and four or five leagues from each. Till
that time no one had appeared to give me information,
nor did any one after, except a servant from Agua Nueva,
who told me that the enemy had been evacuating his po-
sition since the day previous, and falling back towards
Saltillo ; and that on that same morning, the hacienda
had been wholly abandoned, by the retreat of a small
detachment which escorted a large quantity of munitions.
By this movement my first plans and dispositions, founded
on an expected resistance, were rendered abortive ; but I
still did not despair of a successful result, for I had in
anticipation directed General Minon, with his cavalry
brigade, twelve hundred strong, to occupy, on the morn-
ing of the 22d, the hacienda of Buena Vista, distant three-
short leagues from Saltillo. This force might arrest the
enemy's march, or, at least, make a diversion that would
n2
150 8ANTA anna's ACCOUNT.
give time for the army to come up. I therefore continued
my march, without losing more time than would allow the
soldiers to drink water on the road. The light brigade
came within sight of the enemy's rear-guard, and I order-
ed them to charge in conjunction with the hussar regi-
ment. I had reason to believe the enemy were making a
precipitate retreat, as they left several articles on the road,
such as carts, forge implements, extra wheels, and other
things, which we gathered while marching. In conse-
quence of the different reports I received, I ordered the
cavalry to advance ; I thought we would be able to reach
their rear-guard, and placed myself at the head of those
troops.
''On arriving at a place called Angostura, I found the
main body of the enemy awaiting me in position. The
road from the pass of Pinones to Saltillo runs between
two chains of mountains, which form that pass and those
of Carnero and Agua Nueva. The ridges open beyond
the hacienda and approach each other again at Angostura,
where the road turns to the right. At this place there is
a succession of ridges, which run out towards the hne of
our route, and at right angles with it, and between them
are ravines which form the drains of the mountains on the
riglit. They are more or less passable, but all very diflS-
cult. The enemy's position was in front and in rear of
the road, his right and front being covered by ravines that
were impassable, even for infantry, and a battery of four
pieces being planted on the highest point. His battalions
were formed on the heights with two other batteries, one
of which was in a low part of the road, between two hills ;
and, to my view, their forces appeared to be about eight
thousand men, with twenty pieces ; but the prisoners taken
^
8A.M A anna'? ACCOUNT. 161
from them report twenty-six pieces, and upwards of eight
thousand combatants.
'* I reconnoitred the position and situation of the ene-
my, and ordered the director of engineers, General Don
Ignacio de Mora y Villamil, to do the same. After ascer-
taining the force of the invader, it was necessary either to
await the infantry, to take position, or to fight, as might
seem most advisable. At this interval, I observed that
the enemy had neglected to occupy a height, on his left
flank ; and, without losing a moment, I ordered General
Ampudia's light brigade to take possession of, and hold it
at every cost. As the brigade came up, I formed them
in two lines on a rising ground that fronted the enemy,
there being another eminence between our two positions :
the first division of infantry was under the command of
General Lombardini, and the second under the command
of General Pacheco. I directed that General Mora y
Villamil, in conjunction with the commanding general of
artillery, Don Antonio Corona, should find a position for
a battery of sixteen-pound ers, to be sustained by the regi-
ment of engineers. Two other batteries, of twelve and
eight-pounders, were located by me. The cavalry, com-
manded by General Juvera, were placed on the right of
our rear, and on our left flank. The regiment of hussars
was also posted in the rear, and on the left flank aforesaid
was a height which I ordered the battalion of Leon to oc-
cupy. The general park was in the rear, covered by the
brigade of General Andrade, and between this park and
the lines of battle I took my own position.
''The making of these dispositions, as may be sup-
posed, occupied some time, for the troops arrived at their
positions after a march of more than twenty leagues. It
152 8▲^'TA anna's account.
was therefore not an hour for combat, and the army lay
on its arms. The enemy, however, so soon as he per-
ceived that we had occupied the height that flanked his
left and our right, despatched two battahons to dislodge
us, which led to a warm engagement, that lasted all the
afternoon and till after dark, when he was repulsed with a
loss of four hundred men, according to the report of the
prisoners. Ours was much less, as we had the advantage
of the ground.
'* At dawn on the 23d I mounted my horse ; the enemy
had not changed his previous dispositions, and was ready
to receive us. I observed but one difference, which was,
that on his right, and at some distance from his position,
he had formed two bodies of infantry, with a battery of
four pieces, as if with the intent of threatening our left
flank ; but I at once believed this to be a mere demon-
stration, for he would never have left in his rear the diffi-
cult ground which gave strength to thai position, being the
web of impassable ravines before referred to. I, there-
fore, gave no attention to this disposition of his forces, and
resolved to move mine by the right. With this intention,
I advanced the divisions of General Lombardini and Gen-
eral Pacheco in that direction. I ordered General Don
Manuel Micheltorena to plant the battery of eight-pound-
ers on our right flank, so as to rake obliquely the enemy's
line, and to remain with the staff, of which he was chief,
and await my orders. I directed that General Ampudia,
with the light brigade, should charge by our left flank on
the enemy's right, and that General Mora y Villamil should
form a column of attack composed of the regiment of en-
gineers, the 1 2lh battalion, the fijo de Mexico^ and the
companies of Puebia and Tampico. commanded by Colonel
^
SANTA anna's ACCOUNT. 153
Don Santiago Blanco. At the same time, I directed Gen-
eral Corona, commanding the artillery, to place the bat-
tery of twelve-pounders in a more commanding position,
while the dd division remained in reserve under Brevet
General Don Jose Maria Ortega.
" So soon as the enemy perceived our movements, he
commenced the action at all points, attacked our troops
with intrepidity, and maintained the conflict with great
vigor. Our men received them with proper energy, dri-
ving back and following up the assailants. At this time
my horse was disabled by a grape-shot, and it was some
time before I could mount another. As the enemy had
yielded ground, I ordered the cavalry to advance and
charge, which was done with vigor. Suitable orders had
been sent to the generals of division and brigade, among
the rest to General Don Angel Guzman ; but, though the
officers and troops acted with great resolution, it was im-
possible to overcome the difficulties of the ground ; and
after a struggle which did them honor, they were obliged
to fall back to their positions. After various alternations,
the same occurred with the infantry.
" The battle, which commenced at seven in the morn-
ing, was prolonged for many hours, our loss every moment
accumulating. Many officers and soldiers had already
been killed, and a number of commanders and distin-
guished officers wounded, among whom were General
Lombardini, Lieutenant-colonels Brito, Galloso,and others.
Among the slain were Lieutenant-colonels Asonos, Berra,
and other meritorious officers, whose loss the country
will ever lament. The enemy maintained his ground
with the utmost obstinacy, insomuch that some of our
troops faltered in their attacks, and many of the raw re-
154 SANTA anna's account.
emits dispersed. This, however, ought to exalt the merit
of those whose intrepidity was never paralyzed, and may
also be cited to show how hotly contested was the action.
" Things were in this situation when I concluded to
make the final effort. With tliis view I ordered that a
battery of twenty-four pounders should be mounted ; that
the column of attack then posted on our left flank, where
it had no object of operation, should be transferred to our
right, and there be joined by the remains of the Eleventh
regiment, the battalion of Leon, and the reserves, all under
the command of Brevet-General Don Francisco Perez. I
executed this in person, and afterwards sent for General
Mora y Villamil, and made him acquainted with my final
disposition. I had already directed Generals Perez and
Pacheco, each with his command, to be prepared for an
extreme struggle, and had ordered the battery of eight-
pounders to advance and take the enemy's line in flank.
The eharge was made with daring valor, and was resisted
with animated vigor, with a fire so heavy and rapid as to
cause admiration ; but the Americans could not sustain
themselves — they were driven back and overcome, with
the loss of three pieces of cannon and as many stands of
colors. I sent two of the latter to the government with
my last despatch ; the other, which 1 then omitted to no-
tice, will be presented to the honorable congress of the
State of San Luis Potosi, as a testimonial of the army's
gratitude for the patriotic services they had rendered, and
the generous sacrifices they had made for its benefit. We
moreover captured a travelling forge, and some smaller
articles, which I will not enumerate. Our cavalry, which
so bravely executed the order to charge, reached the en-
emy's rearmost positions ; but, owing to the nature of the
SANTA anna's ACCOUNT.
ground and the fatigue of the men and horses, I did not
think it prudent to attempt to dislodge them from those.
The battle closed at six in the evening, our troops being
then formed on the ground which the Americans had oc-
cupied. Our last effort would have been decisive, if Gen-
eral Minon had done his part by attacking the enemy in
the rear ; but he omitted to do it, and I am under the
painful necessity of subjecting his conduct to a court
martial, that he may explain it. An action thus contested
necessarily involved considerable loss. Ours in killed
and wounded amounted to more than fifteen hundred
men, and that of the enemy was much greater, for we
had time to take a view of the great number of their
dead.
" The plans of these two actions, and of the route from
Agua Nueva to Saltillo, and the reports of the generals of
the division and brigade, which I send with this to your
excellency, will give the supreme government an idea of
such details as I have not dwelt on, without making this
report more diffuse ; but this will still serve to attest the
bravery of our troops, and the glory acquired by the na-
tion during these days of action.
" In the order of the day, I expressed, as in duty bound,
my satisfaction with the conduct of the officers, command-
ers of corps, and generals, and gave them tiianks for it
in the name of the republic. I could wish to announce
in this report the names of many commanding officers,
that their memory may be engraved on the gratitude of the
nation, not only for their resolute and honorable deport-
ment in both actions, tut for the constancy with which
they have overcome so many privations, sufferings, and
fatigues^ and givjen therein an example both of civic and
156 SANTA anna's ACCOUNT.
military Worth. Anxious to do this justice, I adopt as my
own the authorship of those eulogies which the generals
of brigade and division have bestowed on their subordi-
nates. I would, moreover, place in view of the govern-
ment, the merit manifested by the director-general of en-
gineers, Don* Ignacio Mora y Yillamil, who fulfilled, to
my entire satisfaction, all the duties I assigned to him, for
which I consider him worthy of the highest praise, and of
such remuneration as the supreme government may be
pleased to award to his distinguished services. General
Ampudia, to whom, from the favorable opinion which I
had of him, I intrusted the command of the four light
battalions, acquitted himself with gallantry. General
Lombardini, who commanded the First division of in-
fant 17, conducted himself with valor, and was wounded.
General Pacheco, commanding the Second division of
infantry, came up to my orders and his duties, and fought
to my satisfaction. General Juvera comported himself
honorably, and had his horse killed under him. Brevet-
General Torrejon received a contusion, and General Guz-
man displayed the gallantry for which he was already
distinguished, and was wounded. Brevet-General Mi-
chel torena, as head of the staff, duly performed all that
belonged to his station ; and I also confided to his special
charge the battery of eight-pounders, which was the most
in advance. General Perez acted as might be expected
from his accustomed gallantry, and for this I intrusted to
his command the troops I have before mentioned, with
which he contributed to disorder the line of the enemy at
five in the evening. I would also commend General Or-
tega, who commanded the Third division of foot, and
performed his duties to my satisfaction) as also Brevet
\
SANTA anna's account. 157
general Uraga, and Generals Parrodi, Portilla, Vasquez,
Janregui, Terres, and Sanchez.
'* It is entirely due to the commanding general of artil-
lery, Don Antonio Corona, that I should commend him
for carrying out my dispositions, as might be expected
from him, and for laboring assiduously at San Luis, in
the heaviest duties of his branch of service ; and it is
a pleasing duty for me to laud the merit acquired by
Colonel Banencli, and Colonel Brito, who was wounded ;
Colonel Aldrade, of the hussars, who, to my satisfaction,
evinced his usual bravery ; Colonel S. Blanco, who com-
manded a column of attack on the left, and acted well,
and Colonel M. Blanco — both of the last being of the en-
gineers — as also Colonel Obando, of the flying artillery,
and Colonel Garay.
" The report of the killed and wounded, which I also
send, will show what has been our loss. I should be
lacking in justice, and not express my own feelings, were
I not most earnestly to request that attention be paid, as
is by law provided, to the cases of the widows, orphans,
and such of the wounded as may be permanently dis-
abled.
" The formidable position which the enemy occupied,
was all that saved him ; the victory would otherwise
have been decisive, notwithstanding his obstinate resist-
ance. Still this triumph will have favorable results to the
national cause, as it will show to every one what can be
accomplished when all hearts are united, and with one
aim.
'* The army has done more than could be expected un-
der the laws of nature. It had just been formed, and as
yet tiad not acquired discipline or military habits ; yet in
o
158 SANTA anna's ACCOUNT.
marching to the combat, it overcame difficulties which
might have subdued the stoutest heart. After a march
of twenty leagues, sixteen of them without water, and
without other food than a single ration, which was dealt
out at Encarnacion, it endured the fatigue of combat for
two days, and finally triumphed. With all this, its physi-
cal powers were exhausted. My knowledge of this, and
the duty I felt in attending to such a number of wounded,
constrained me, after remaining a few hours on the field
of battle, to fall back upon Agua Nueva, for the relief and
refreshment of the troops.
"From the impression we had made on the enemy,
he did not appear before us for three days. The bearer
of a flag of truce, however, arrived with a proposition
from General Taylor for an exchange of prisoners, and
for our sending for the wounded who had remained on
the field. He also expressed to me the desire which
the Americans felt for the re-establishment of peace. I
replied, in order that he might say the same to his gen-
eral, that we sustained the most sacred of causes — the
defence of our territory, and the preservation of our na-
tionality and rights ; that we were not the aggressors,
and that our government had never offended that of the
United Stales. / observed^ that we could say nothing of
peace while the Americans were on this side of the Bravo^
or occupied any part of the Mexican territory y or block"
mded our ports ; and that we were resolved to perish or
▼indicate our rights ; that fortune might not be always
favorable to the enemy, and their experience of the 22d
and 23d should convince them that it could change ; I
added, that the Americans waged against us a war of
vandalism, whose excesses outraged those sentiments of
SANTA ANNANS ACCOUNT. 159
humanity which one civilized nation ought to evince to-
wards anotiier ; and that if he would go outside of the
apartment he would still see smoking, which was the fact,
the dwellings of Agua Nueva, recently u flourishing,
though a small settlement ; that the same vestiges of
desolation marked the route of his retreat ; and that if he
would go a little farther on, to Catana, he would hear the
moans of the widows and orphans of innocent victims
who had been sacrificed without necessity.
" With respect to the wounded, whom I was invited
to send for, I replied that there could be none save those
who had been too much hurt to rise from the field, or
those most in the advance, who had remained in the
ravines ; and that as I had not means for their convey-
ance, the enemy might take them to Saltillo, under the
protection of the laws of nations. As for the prisoners
which he offered to exchange, I told him I did not know
who they could be, unless it were some of our dispersed
troops, or some who, from the fatigue of the two pre-
vious days, had remained asleep when we moved. In
answer to the courtesy the enemy's general had shown
with respect to our wounded, I consented, in the name of
the nation, to release all the prisoners we had — those
taken both in the battle and at Encarnacion. At the same
time I allowed the bearer of the flag, who was a superior
officer, of prepossessing appearance and manners, to take
the bandage from his eyes, and informed him that it was
for him personally that the honor of this concession waH
meant. I did it also that he might see our camp and our
troops.
*' As I have said in the preceding paragraph, we re-
mained at the hacienda three days ; but tlie only supply
160 8ANTA anna's ACCOUNT.
we could obtain was ninety beeves, and these were con-
sumed on the 25th. The horses were also without for-
age, and notwithstanding all the efforts or provisions that
I could make, many of the wounded had been but once
attended to, and some not at all. From the rigor of the
climate, the badness and scantiness of the sustenance, the
entire want of bread, and the bad quality of the water
used in our former bivouacs, a bowel complaint had bro-
ken out in the army, and rendered ineffective at least
one-half of it. I knew that a retrograde movement to our
former positions had become inevitable ; but though every
thing around me proclaimed this necessity, my feelings
revolted against it, solely because I foresaw that from ig-
norance, malice, or presumption, the countermarch would
be condenvned, and that those who did not witness our
situation would imagine the possibility of the army's con-
tinuing its operations.
" Six days before, when the troops had not suffered so
much, nor fought for two successive days, nor been em-
barrassed with sick and wounded, but were still sound in
morale and in health, I had not deemed it prudent to
augment the labors and difficulties of the army by moving
to the right or to the left ; how then would it have been
possible to go on operating after all that subsequently
occurred ? But let detractors say what they will, the
army as well as myself will always answer by an appeal
to our conduct, our wishes, and the notorious impossibil
ity of carrying them out. Notwithstanding my conviction,
I wished to hear the opinion of the generals and some oi
the commanders of corps, and to ascertain if they could
point out any resource which had not occurred to me.
Without dii<closing my own ideas on the subject I lis
8ANTA anna's ACCOUNT. 161
ened to theirs, and they all unanimously, and each one by
/lis opinion separately expressed, showed and demon-
strated in various ways, that however good their will to
emain, the countermarch of the army had become in-
dispensable, but that this necessity was not forced upon
as by the enemy. It was not till I had heard their
opinions that I announced my own accordant resolution,
and the proceedings of the council being drawn up, I
had the honor of remitting them to your excellency on
the 25th.
*' On the 26th, after I had ordered General Minon to
follow the movement, the ai^y commenced its retreat
with the view of occupying the first peopled localities,
where resources might be obtained, such as Yanegas
Catorce, El Cadral, and Matehuala, as also Tula ; but I
doubt if in those places proper attention can be given to
the sick and wounded — or the losses we have sustained
jn those laborious movements be remedied.
'' The nation, for which a triumph has been gained
at the cost of so many sufferings, will learn that, if we
were able to conquer in the midst of so many embar-
rassments, there will be no doubt as to our final success
m the struggle we sustain, if every spirit but rallies to
he one sacred object of common defence. A mere de-
ermined number of men will not, as many imagine, suf-
fice for the prosecution of war : it is indispensable that
hey be anned, equipped, disciplined, and habituated, and
hat a systematized support for such an organized force
be provided. We must bear in mind that we have to
combat in a region deficient of all resources, and that
every thing for subsistence has to be carried along with
the soldiery : the good-will of a few will not sufiice, bu
o2 il
162
8ANTA ANNA 8 ACCOUNT.
the co-operation of all is needed ; and if we do not cast
aside selfish interests, and petty passions, we can expect
nothing but disaster. The army, and myself who have
led it, have the satisfaction of knowing that we have de-
monstrated this truth "
ARMT ADTAHCBS TO I.OBOt« 163
CHAPTER IX.
Advance of the Army to Lobos ; thence to Antonio lizaido^ — Siege aad
Capture of Vera Cruz. — Official Despatches. — March to the Interior^-^
Battle of Cerro Gordo. — Official Despatches. — Capture of Puebla.
General Scott having been joined by the troops from
the Upper Rio Grande, halted for a few days at the mouth
of the^iver. Every thing being in readiness, they were
taken on board transports, and proceeded to join others
who had made their rendezvous at the island of Lobos,
about 125 miles north and west of the city of Vera Cruz.
The troops being thus collected, the whole armament pro-
ceeded to Antonio Lizardo.
On the morning of the 7th of March, General Scott, in
a steamer, with Commodore Connor, reconnoitred the
city, for the purpose of selecting the best landing-place
for the army. The spot selected was the shore west of.
the island of Sacrificios. The anchorage was too narrow
for a large number of vessels, and on the morning of the
9th of March the troops were removed from the transports
to the ships of war. The fleet then set sail — General
Scott in the steamship Massachusetts, leading the van.
As he passed through the squadron, his tall form, con-
spicuous on the deck, attracted the eyes of soldier and
of sailor ; a cheer burst spontaneously forth, and from ves-
sel to vessel was echoed, and answered through the line.
The voices of veterans, and of new recruits — of those
who had been victorious at Monterey, and of those who
164 TROOPS LAND AT 8ACRIPJCI0S.
hoped for victories in the future — were mingled in loud
acclamation for him, whose character inspired confidence,
and whose actions were already embodied in the glorious
history of their country !
Near Sacrificios the landing commenced. It must be
ob^orvcd at this point, that every man expected to be met
at the landing; for such, in military judgment, should
have been the course of the enemy, and such woiild have
bocu the case had the landing been made at the point
whort^ the enemy expected it, and wheie his forces were
collocted. Prep^urations were therefore made for any pos-
sible contingency. Two steamers and five gunboats, ar-
ranged in line, covered the landing. Five thousand five
hundrt\l tnH>[vs embarked in sixty-seven surf-boats. The
signul-gun was fired. The seamen bent to their oars, and
in a magnificent semicircle the boats swept rapidly to-
wuiiLh I ho l>each. Every man is anxious to be first. They
plunge into the water before they reach the shore ! they
rush through the sand-hills ! and with loud shouts they
piYss forward ! They wave the flag of their country in
the land of the Aitecs ! Where are their comrades ? They
also soon embark — they hurry through the water — they
land in safety — tliey rejoin their companions — they return
shout for shout, to friends in the vessels and friends on
shore. Safely, but hurriedly, they then pass through this
exciting crisis.
In the meanwhile, tlie sun shines down in the brilliance
of his light, the waters are but just ruffled by a breeze,
while tlie deep waves are calm and the sky serene. Full
in view lies Uie citv of Vera Cms, and near is the re-
nowned castle of San Juan d'UUoa 1 The harbor is crowd-
ed with foreign vesselsi and dodu and ligging are filled
\^
REFLECTIONS ON THE LANDING. 165
with wondering spectators ! Never, says one, shall I for-
get the excitement of that scene !
The first division of troops had landed a little before
sunset, the second and third followed in succession, and
before ten o'clock the whole army (numbering twelve
thousand men) was landed, without the slightest accident
and without the loss of a single life !
Thus, at the distance of more than three hundred years,
was renewed the landing and march of Cortez ! Both
were brilliant, and remarkable in history and conduct.
The Spanish hero came to encounter and subdue, on un-
known shores, the Aztectic-American civilization. The
Anglo-American came to meet and prevail against the
Spanish-Aztec combination. Both came with inferior
numbers, to illustrate the higher order and vastly superior
energies of moral power. Both came agents controlled
by an invisible spirit, in carrying forward the drama of
Divine Providence on earth. In vain do we speculate as
to the end ; it will be revealed only when the last curtain
is drawn from the deep, mysterious Future.
The landing at Vera Cruz, as a military operation, de-
serves a credit which is seldom awarded to bloodless
achievements. It is common to measure military opera-
tions by the current of blood .which has flowed. But
why ? Is he not the. best general who accomplishes the
greatest results with the least loss ? Or must we adopt
the savage theory, that the greatest inhumanity is the
greatest heroism ? Mere animal bravery is a common
quality. Why, then, should the exhibition of so common
a quality, in an open battle, give distinction, when it is
skill only that is valuable, and science only that is un-
common? This skill and science were exhibited in a
OPINIONS 07 THB PRESS. 167
most singular and felicitous manner, in the pre-arr&nge-
ments, combinations, and success, which attended the
landing of the American army under the walls of Vera
Cruz.
Of this landing, as compared with a similar one by the
French at Algiers, the New Orleans Bulletiriy of March
27th, makes the following correct and interesting re-
marks :
" The landing of the American army at Vera Cruz has
been accomplished in a manner that reflects the highest
credit on all concerned, and the regularity, precision, and
promptness with which it was effected, has probably not
been surpassed, if it has been equalled in modem war-
fare.
" The removal of a large body of troops from numer-
ous transports into boats in an open sea — their subsequent
disembarkation on the sea-beach, on an enemy's coast,
through a surf, with all their arms and accoutrements,
without a single error or accident, requires great exertion,
skill, and sound judgment.
''The French expedition against Algiers, in 1830, was
said to be the most complete armament in every respect
that ever left Europe ; it had been prepared with labor,
attention, and experience, and nothing had been omitted
to ensure success, and particularly in the means and
facilities for landing the troops. This disembarkation
took place in a wide bay, which Was more favorable than
an open beach directly on the ocean, and (as in the pres-
ent instance) without any resistance on the part of the
enemy — yet, only nine thousand men were landed the
first day, and from thirty to forty lives were lost by acci-
dents, or upsetting of boals ; whereas, on the present oc-
168 VERA CRUZ INVESTED.
casion, twelve thousand men were landed in one day,
without, so far as we have heard, the slightest accident or
the loss of a single life."
No troops of the enemy made direct opposition to the
American army on reaching the beach, but the guns of
the castle and city kept up a constant firing with round-
shot and thirteen-inch shells. The several corps imme-
diately occupied the lines of investment to which they
had been respectively assigned by General Scott's orders.*
These orders pointed out the most minute particulars, and
were based on prior information, obtained by the engi-
neer and topographical departments, and carefully ana-
lyzed and thoroughly studied, by the commander-in-chief.
This information was so accurate, and so well understood
by the commander, the engineers, and the chief of the
staff, that they made no mistakes. They found all as
they anticipated : their arrangements resulted as they in-
tended, and the regiments and companies took their re-
spective places as quietly and orderly as if they were
parading on the green banks of the Potomac ! Parties of
the enemy appeared, and skirmishes took place, but noth-
ing seriously interrupted the progress of investment. On
the 12th instant, the entire army had completely occupied
its positi9ns.'
All this was not done without labor, fatigue, and expo-
sure of the severest kind. The carts, horses, and mules,
except a very few,' had not yet arrived. Innumerable
' General Oniere, No. 47.
* Genoral Scott's Official Report, dated 12th of March, 1847.
* Theru had then arrived but fifteen carta and one hundred draufrfat-
honet.
\\
SIEGE CARRIED ON. 169
hills of loose sand, and almost impassable thickets of chap-
paral, covered the ground of operations. Through these,
by their own hands, and on their backs, soldiers, both
regular and volunteer, dragged their provisions, their
equipments, and munitions of war, .under the rays of a sun
already hot in a tropical climate. The sands of this pecu-
liar region are so light, that during the existence of a
" norther," (a so-called wind of the Gulf,) if a man would
lie down for an hour or two, he would inevitably be buried
in the floating drifts ! He must therefore, at this season,
seek shelter in chapparals. In such circumstances — un-
der the distant fire of the enemy's fortresses, and in the
midst of sharp skirmishes — the investment was completed.
The lines of siege were five miles in length, and on that
whole distance provisions must be carried and commu-
nications kept up with d^pdts, and with ships at sea. In
this the officers and seamen of the navy co-operated with
those of the army in the most gallant and skilful manner.
During this part of the siege a " norther" prevailed,
which rendered it impossible to land heavy ordnance. On
the 17th a pause occurred in the storm, and ten mortars^
four twenty-four-pound guns, and some howitzers were
landed. On the night of the 18th the trenches were
opened, and, the engineers with the sappers and miners
leading the way, the army gradually closed in nearer the
city.
On the 22d of March — seven of the ten-inch mortars
being in battery, and other works in progress — General
Scott summoned the governor of Vera Cruz to surrender
the city. The governor, who was also governor of tho
castle, chose to consider the summons to surrender that,
as well as the city, and rejected the proposition. On the
p
170 A TRrCB ABKED FOB.
return of ihe flag, the mortar-battery, at the distance of
eight hundred yards from the city, opened its fire on the
city, and continued to fire during the day and night.
On the 24th the batteries were reinforced with twenty-
four-pounders and paixhan guns. On the 25th all the
batteries were in "awful activity." Terrible was tlie
scene ! The darkness of night was illuminated witli
blazing shells circling through the air. ' The roar of artil-
lery and the heavy fall of descending shot were heard
through the streets of the besieged city. The roofs of
buildings were on fire. The domes of churches rover-
berated with fearful explosions. The sea was reddened
with ilic broadsides of ships. The castle of San Juan
returned, from its heavy batteries, the fire, the tight, the
smoke, the noise of baiile. Such was the sublime and
awfully terrible scene, as beheld from the trenches of the
army, from the 22d to the 2Sth of March, when the accu-
mulated science of ages, applied to the military art, had,
en the plains of Vera Cruz, aggregated and displayed iho
fnlncss of ils destructive power.
On the evening of the 25th instant, the consuls of Eu-
ropean powers residing in Vera Cruz, made application,
by memorial, to General Scott for a truce, to enable them
and the women and children of the city to retire. To
this General Scott replied — that a truce could only be
granted un application of General Morales, the governor,
with a view to surrender;' that safeguards had already
been sent to the foreign consuls, of which they had refu
sed to avail themselves ; that the blockade had been left
open to consuls and neutrals to the 22d proximo; and
* BmM'i OSiciil B«pan oT Mvroli SS, 184T.
OTBRTURBS FOR SURRENDER.
that the case of women and cliildren, with their hardships
and distresses, had been fully considered before one gun
was fired.
The memorial represented that the batteries had already
a terrible effect on the city — and by this, and other evi-
dence, it was now clear that a crisis had arrived. The
city must either be surrendered, or it must be consigned
to inevitable and most melancholy destruction.
Accordingly, early on the morning of the 26th of March,
General Landero, on whom the command had been de-
volved by General Morales, made overtures of surrender.
Arrangements had been made by Scott for carrying the
city by assault on that very day. The proposition of the
Mexican general made this unnecessary, and Generals
Worth and Pillow, with Colonel Totten, that distinguished
officer of the engineer corps, who had conducted the siege,
were appointed commissioners on the part of the Ameri-
can army, to treat with others appointed by the governor
of Vera Cruz. Late on the night of the 27th the articles
of capitulation were signed and exchanged.
On the 29th of March the official despatch of General
Scott announced that the flag of the United States floated
over the walls of Vera Cruz and the castle of San Juan
d'Ulloa. The regular siege of the city had continued
from the day of investment^ the 12th of March, to the day
the articles of capitulation were signed, the 27th, making
a period oi fifteen days^ in which active, continuous, and
vigorous operations were carried on. During this time
our army had thrown three thousand ten-inch shells, two
hundred howitzer shells, one thousand paixhan shot, and
two thousand five hundred round-shot, weighing on the
whole about half a million 6f pounds I Most effective
172 CITT AND CASTLB
and most terrible was the dieaster and deatniction they
caused within the walUof the city, whose ruins and whose
mourning attested both the energy and the sadoess of war.
By some it was thought strange that the governor of
Vera Cruz should have surrendered so soon ; but, oa a
fiill exhibition of the facts of the siege, surprise gives
place to admiration at the progress, power, and develop-
ment of military science. The thirty years which had
elapsed since the fall of Napoleon, had not been idly
passed by military men. They had acquired and sys-
tematized new arts and n^w methods in the ait of war.
Nor were American officers inattentive to this progress.
They had shared in it all, and when the siege of Vera
Cruz was undertaken, this new power and metliod were
fiilly displayed. The city was environed with cords of
strength, in which all its defences must be folded and
crushed. The result was inevitable. The officers of
Vera Cruz saw this, and although the castle of San Juan
might have held out a few days longer, for what purpose
would i[ have been 1 There is no rule of mihiary science
which requires fighting when fighting is useless. There
is no law of humanity which would not be violated by the
wanton exposure of towns and inhabitants when defence
was impossible. The surrender was, therefore, alike just
to victors and defenders, both of whom had arrived at an
inevitable end, — the result of progress in high civilization,
and of the highest military skill and accomplishments.
By the terms of capitulation, all the arms and munitions
of war were given up to the United States ; five lliousand
prisoners surrendered on parole ; near five hundred pieces
of fine artillery were taken ; the best port of Mexico cap-
tured and possessed ; and the famed castle of San Juan,
\^
REFLECTIONS ON THE ETENT. 173
said to be impregnable, and which had been refitted and
equipped in the best possibfe manner, yielded its defences
to the superior skill and energy of the Anglo-Americans.
At 10 a. m., on the morning of the 29th, that people, who
centuries before had, with a small band, marched through
the Aztec empire, and, with the pride of power, supplant-
ed its ancient dominion, struck their flags and quietly sub-
mitted to another and a newer race, who had come over
the Atlantic later than themselves, but who had imbibed
other principles, and been impelled by stronger energies,
in the colder regions of the north. On the castle of San
Juan, on the forts of Santiago and Conception, the banner
of the American Union gracefully ascended, and, amidst
the shouts and cheers of warriors on sea and shore, bent its
folds to the breeze, and looked forth over the Mexican Gulf.
In this great and successful enterprise, the American
arms met with but little loss. Two officers,^ (valuable,
however, to their corps and country,) with a few soldiers,
were all the deaths. So great a result, obtained with so
little loss, may be sought in vain among the best cam-
paigns of the best generals of modern times. There are
those who think victory brightest when achieved in the
carnival of death, and the laurel greenest which is plucked
from a crimson tree. But this is not the estimate of the
humane, the honorable, or the intelligent. They, in this
age of .the world, will deem that achievement greatest
which costs the least, where skill has been substituted for
death, and science for the brave but often wasted energy
of bodily force.
* Capti^fl Alboitis and Vintoo, both dktingaifdied offieeiit'were killed*
■everal private floldiei&
p2
174 OKH. Scott's oibpitchm.
SoRie incidents of this siege are related, which illus-
trate the character of General Scott and the nature of the
war. On one occasion, when the general was walking
along the trenches, the soldiers would frequently rise up
and look orer the parapet. The general cried out,
" Down — down, men I — don't expose youraelyes." " But,
general," said one, "you are exposed." "Oh!" said
Scott, "gmerals, now-a-days, can be made out of any-
body, but men cannot be had."
Something has been sererely said, as to the loss of
women and children by the bombardment of the city ; but
this is unjustly said. Scott, as appears by the official
papers, gave ample notice of the danger to consuls, neu-
trals, and non-combatants in the cily, and ample time for
them to remove. That they, or at least many of ihcm,
did not avail themselves of that notice, was their own
feull ; and, by the laws of war, it was both unnecessary
and impossible that the siege should be delayed, or given
up, on account of the inhabitants within, who had long
known that the United States army would land there,
and who had received &om the commander full notice of
danger.
We add General Scott's official despatches.
HiiDftcuBnu or thb Aun, i
Camp WuhingtoD, berore Viiu Crux. >
Munb ISlh, 164T. S
Sir : — The colors of the United States were triumphantly
planted ashore, in full view of this city and castle, and under
the distant lire of both, in the aflemoon of the 9th inst.
BreVct Brigadier-gen oral Worth's brigade of regulars led the
descent, quiokly followed by the divbion of United Stales
volunteers under Major-general Patterson, and Brigadier.
OEN. scott's despatches. 175
general Twiggs' reserve brigade of regulars. The three
lines successively landed in sixty-seven surf-boats, each boat
conducted by a naval officer, and rowed by sailors from Com-
modore Connor's squadron, whose lighter vessels flanked the
Jx)ats so as to be ready to protect the operation by their cross-
fire. The whole army reached the shore in fine style, and
without direct opposition, (on the beach,) accident, or loss,
driving the enemy from the ground to be occupied.
The line of investment, according to General Orders, No.
47, was partially taken up the same night ; but has only been
completed to-day, owing to the most extraordinary difficulties :
1. The environs of the city, outside of the fire of its guns and
those of the castle, are broken into innumerable hills of loose
sand, from 20 to 250 feet in height, with almost impassable
forests of chapporal between ; and, 2. Of all our means of
land- transportation — ^wagons, carts, pack-saddles, horses, and
mules, expected to join us from Tampico and the Brazos,
weeks ago— but 15 carts and about 100 draught-horses have
yet arrived. Three hundred pack-mules are greatly needed
to relieve the troops in taking subsistence alone, along the
line of investment of more than five miles, as, at present, our
only depot is south of the city. On the cessation of the pres-
ent raging Norther, which almost stifles the troops with sand,
sweeping away hills and creating new, I hope to establish a
second depot north of the city, which will partially relieve the
left wing of the army.
In extending the line of investment around the city, the
troops for three days have performed the heaviest labors in
getting over the hills and cutting through the intervening
forests — all under the distant fire of the city and castle, and
in the midst of many sharp skirmishes with the enemy. In
these operations we have lost in killed and wounded several
valuable officers and men. Among the killed I have to re-
port Brevet Capt. Alburtis, of the United States 2d Infantry,
176 OEN. bcott's despatches continued.
much distinguished in the Florida war, and a most excellent
officer. He fell on the 11th inst. ; and Lieut. Col. Dickenson,
of the South Carolina Regiment, was badly wounded in a
skirmish the day before. Two privates have been killed in
these operations, and four or five wounded. As yet I have
Bot been able to obtain their names.
As soon as the subsbtence of the troops can be assured,
and their positions are well established, I shall, by an or-
ganized movement, cause each brigade of regulars and volun.
teers to send detachments, with supports, to clear its front,
including sub-bourgs, of the enemy's parties, so as to oblige
them to confine themselves within the walls of the city.
I have heretofore reported that but two-sevenths of the
siege-train and ammunition had reached me. The remainder
is yet unheard of. We shall commence landing the heavy
metal as soon as the storm subsides, and hope that the five-
sevenths may be up in time.
The city being invested, woujd, no doubt, early surrender,
but for the fear that, if occupied by us, it would immediately
be fired upon by the castle. I am not altogether without
hope of finding the means of coming to some compromise
with the city on this subject.
So far, the principal skirmishing has fallen to the lot of
Brigadier-goneral Pillow's and Quitman's brigades. Both
old and new volunteer regiments have conducted themselves
admirably. Indeed, the whole army is full of zeal and
confidence, and cannot fail to acquire distinction in the im-
pending operations.
To Commodore Connor, the officers and sailors of his
squadron, the army is indebted for great and unceasing
assistance, promptly and cheerfully rendered. Their co-opera-
tion is the constant theme of our gratitude and admiration. A
handsome detachment of marines, under Capt. Edson, of that
corps, landed with the first line, and is doing duty with the army.
\\
GEN. bcott's despatches continited. 1T7
March 18.— The enemy, at intervals, continues the fire of
heavy ordnance, from the city and castle, upon our line of
investment, both by day and night, but with little or no
efiect.
The norther has ceased, which has renewed our com-
munication with the store-ships at anchor under Sacrificios.
We shall immediately commence landing the few pieces of
heavy ordnance, with ordnance stores, at hand, and hope
soon to have the necessary draught- mules to take them to
their positions. Any farther delay in the arrival of those
means of transportation will be severely felt in our operations.
I have t|}e honor to remain, sir, with high respect, your
most obedient servant,
WINFIELD SCOTT.
Hon. Wm. L. MAmor, Secretary of War.
Hbadquaetbus op THi Aemt, )
Camp Waahington, before Vera Cms, >
March 23, 1847. )
Sib : — ^Yesterday, seven of our 10-inch mortars being in
battery, and the labors for planting the remainder of our
heavy metal being in progress, I addressed, at two o'clook^
p. M. a summons to the Governor of Vera Cruz, and within
the two hours limited by the bearer of the flag, received the
Grovemor's answer. Copies of the two papers (marked respeo-
tively A and B) are herewith enclosed.
It will be perceived that the (Sovemor, who, it turns out,
is the commander of both places, chose, against the plain
terms of the summons, to suppose me to have demanded the
surrender of the castle and of the city ; when in fact, from
the non-arrival of our heavy metal — principally mortars — I
was in no condition to threaten the former.
On the return of the flog with that reply, I at once order-
ed the seven mortars, in battery, to open upon the city.
In a short time the smaller vessels of Commodore Perry's
squadron — ^two steamers and five schooners— according to
12
\
\
178 OEN. BCOTT's DE8PATCHB8 CONTINUED.
preTious arrangement with him, approached the city witl.
about a mile and an eighth, whence, being partially covets* J
firom the castle — an essential condition to their safety — thpy
also opened a brisk fire upon the city. This has been con-
tinued uninterruptedly by the mortars, and only with a few
intermissions, by the vessels, up to 9 o'clock this morning,
when the Commodore, very properly, called them off from a
position too daringly assumed.
Our three remaining mortars are now (12 o'clock, a. m.)
in battery, and the whole ten in activity. To-morrow, early, if
the city should continue obstinate, batteries Nos. 4 and 5 will be
ready to add their jfirc : No. 4, consisting of four ^4-poundors
and two 8-inch Paixhan guns, and No. 6 (naval battery) ot
three 32-pounders and three 8-inch Paixhans — the guns, offi-
cers, and sailors, landed from the squadron— K)ur friends ot
the navy being unremitting in their zealous co-operation, in
every mode and form.
So far, we know that our fire upon the city has been
highly clTective, particularly from the batteries of lO-inch
mortars, planted at about 600 yards from the city. In-
eluding the preparation and defence of the batteries, from
the beginning — now many days — and notwithstanding the
heavy fire of the enemy, from city and castle, we have only
had four or five men wounded and one officer and one man
killed, in or near the trenches. That officer was Captain
John R. Vinton, of the United States third artillery, one
of the most talented, accomplished, and effective members of
the army, and who was highly distinguished in the brilliant
operations at Monterey. He fell last evening in the trenches,
where he was on duty as field and commanding ofRcer, uni-
versally regretted. I have just attended his honored remains
to a soldier's grave — in full view of the enemy and within
reach of his guns.
Thirteen of the long-needed mortals — leaving twenty-
OBV. SOOTT^S DB8PATCHB8 CONTIMUKD. 179
seven, besides heavy guns, behind — ^have arrived, and two
of tliem landed. A heavy norther then set in (at meridian)
that stopped that operation, and also the landing of shells.
Hence the fire of our mortar batteries has been slackened^
since two o'clock to day, and cannot be reinvigorated until
we shall again have a smooth sea. In the mean time I shall
leave this report open for journalizing events that may occar
up to the departure of the steam ship-of-war, the PrincetoD,
with Com. Connor, who, I learn, expects to leave the an-
chorage of Sacrificios, for the United States, the 25th inst.
March 24. — ^The storm having subsided in the night, we
commenced this forenoon, as soon as the sea became a little
smooth, to land shot, shells, and mortars.
The naval battery No. 5, was opened with great activity,
under Capt. Aulick, the second in rank of the squadron, at
about 10 A. M. His fire was continued to 2 o'clock, p. m.,
a little before he was relieved by Capt. Mayo, who landed
with a fresh supply of ammunition, Capt. A. having ex-
hausted the supply he had brought with him. He lost four
sailors, killed, and had one officer, Lieut. Baldwin, slightly hurt.
The mortar batteries, Nos. 1, 2, and 8, have fired but lan-
guidly during the day for want of shells,, which are now go-
ing out firom the beach.
The two reports of Col. Dankhead, chief of artillery, both
of this date, copies of which I enclose, give the incidents of
those three batteries.
Battery No. 4, which will mount four 24.pounders and
two 6-inch Paixhan guns, has been much delayed in the
hands of the indefatigable engineers by the norther that filled
up the work with sand nearly as fast as it could be opened
by the half-blinded laborers. It will, however, doubtless be
in full activity early to-morrow morning.
March 25. — ^The Princeton being about to start for Phila-
delphia, I have bat a moment to continue this report.
180 OEN. SCOTT's DE8PATCHB8 CONniflTED.
All the batteries, Nos. 1, 2, 8, 4, and 5, are in awful ac-
tirity this morning. The effect is, no doubt, very great, and
I think the city cannot hold out beyond to-day. To-moTTOw
morning many of the new mortars will be in a position to add
their (ire, when, or after the delay of some twelve hours, if
BO proposition to surrender should be received, I shall or-
ganize parties for carrying the city by assault. So far the
defence has been spirited and obstinate.
I enclose a copy of a memorial received last night signed
by the consuls of Great Britain, France, Spain, and Prussia,
within Vera Cruz, asking me to grant a truce to enable the
neutrals, together with Mexican women and children, to with-
draw from the scene of havoc about them. I shall reply, the
moment that an opportunity may be taken, to say — 1. That
a truce can only be granted on the application of Grov.
Morales, with a pew to surrender. 2. That in sending
safeguards to the diflferent consuls, beginning so far back as
the 13th inst., I distinctly admonished them — ^particularly the
French and Spanish consuls — and of course, through the two,
the other consuls, of the dangers that have followed. 3. That
although at that date I had already refused to allow any per-
son whatsover to pass the line of investment either way, yet
the blockade had been left open to the consuls and other
neutrals to pass out to their respective ships of war up to the
t2d instant ; and, 4. 1 shall enclose to the memorialists a copy
of my summons to the Grovernor, to show that I had fully
considered the impending hardships and distresses of the
place, including those of women and children, before one
gun had been fired in that direction. The intercourse be-
tween the neutral ships of war and the city was stopped at the
last-mentioned date by Commodore Perry, with my concur-
rence, which I placed on the ground that that intercourse
oould not fail to give to the enemy moral aid and contort, ,
It will be seen from the memorial, that our batteries have
\\
our. scott'b despatches contiituid. 181
already had a terrible eflfect on the city, (also known ^through
other sources,) and hence the inference that a surrender must
soon be proposed. In haste,
I have the honor to remain, sir, with respect, your most
obedient servant,
WINFIELD SCOTT.
Hon. Wm. L. MimoT, Secretary of War.
HrAXKIUAETBIIS of THB AjUfT, \
Vkra Cmjz, March 29, 1847. )
Sir — The flag of the United States of America floats
triumphantly over the walls of this city and the castle of San
Juan d'Ulloa.
Our troops have garrisoned both since 10 o'clock : it is now
noon. Brig. Gren. Worth is in command of the two places.
Articles of capitulation were signed and exchanged at a
late hour night before last. I enclose a copy of the docu-
ment.
I have heretofore reported the principal incidents of the
siege up to the 25th instant. Nothing of striking interest oc-
curred till early in the morning of the next day, when I re-
ceived overtures from Greneral Landero, on whom General
Morales had devolved the principal command. A terrible
storm of wind and sand made it diflicult to communicate
with the city, and impossible to refer to Commodore Perry. 1
was obliged to entertain the proposition alone, or to continue
the fire upon a place that had shown a disposition to surrender ;
for the loss of a day, or perhaps several, could not be per-
mitted. The accompanying papers will show the proceedmgs
and results.
Yesterday, after the norther had abated, and the commis>
sioners appointed by me early the morning before had again
met those appointed by General Landero, Commodore Perry
sent ashore his second in command, Captain Aulick, us a
oommissioner on the part of the navy. Although not included
188 OBM. Scott's dsspatchbs continubd.
In my specific arrangement made with the Mexican ooro-
nander, I did not hesitate, with proper oourtesyi to desire
that Captain Aulick might be duly introduced and allowed to
participate in the discussions and acts of the commissioners
who had been reciprocally accredited. Hence the preamble
to his signature. The original American commissioners
were, Brevet Brigadier-general Worth, Brigadier-general
Pillow, and Colonel Totten. Four more able or judicious
officers could not have been desired.
I have to add but little more. The remaining details of the
siege — the able co-operation of the United States squadron,
successively under the command of Commodores Connor
and Perry — ^the admirable conduct of the whole army,
regulars and volunteers — I should be happy to dwell upon as
they deserve ; but the steamer Princeton, with Commodore
Connor on board, is under way, and I have commenced
organizing an advance into the interior. This may be delay-
ed a few days, waiting the arrival of additional means of
transportation. In the mean time, a joint operation, by land
and water, will be made upon Alvarado. No lateral expe-
dition, however, shall interfere with the grand movement to-
wards the capital.
In consideration of the great services of Col. Totten, in the
siege that has just terminated most successfully, and the im-
portance of his presence at Washington, as the head of the
engineer bureau, I intrust this despatch to his personal care,
and beg to commend him to the very favorable consideration
of the department.
I have the honor to remain, sir, with high respect, your
most obedient servant,
WINFIELD SCOTT.
Hon. Wm. L. Marot, Secretary of War
The following were the terms of capitulation finally agreed
apon : —
\l
OBN. bcott's despatches continitbd. 183
Generals W. J. Worth and G. J. Pillow, and Col. J. G.
Totten, chief engineer, on the part of Major-general Scott,
general -in-chief of the armies of the United States ; and Col.
Jose Gutierrez de Villanueva, Lieut. Colonel of the engineers,
Manuel Robles, and Col. Pedra de Herrera, commissioners
appointed by Greneral of brigade Don Jose Juan Landero,
commanding in chief, Vera Cruz, the castle of San Juan
d'Ulloa and their dependencies — for the surrender to the arms
of the United States of the said forts, with their armaments,
munitions of war, garrisons, and arms.
1. The whole garrison, or garrisons, to be surrendered to
the arms of the United States, as prisoners of war, the 29th
inst., at 10 o'clock, a. m. ; the garrisons to be permitted to
march out with all the honors of war, and to lay down their
arms to such officers as may be appointed by the general-in-
chief of the United States, and at a point to be agreed on bj
the comni\|ssioners.
2. Mexican officers shall preserve their arms and private
efiects, including horse and horse furniture, and to be allowed,
regular and irregular officers and also to rank and file, five
days to retire to their respective homes, on parole, as herein-
after prescribed.
8. Coincident with the surrender, as stipulated in article
one, the Mexican flags of the various forts and stations shall
be struck, saluted by their own batteries ; and, immediately
thereafter, ibrts Santiago and Conception and the castle of
San Juan d'Ulloa, occupied by the forces of the United States.
4. The rank and file of the regular portion of the prisoners
to be disposed of, after surrender and parole, as their general-
in-chief may desire, and the irregular to be permitted to re-
turn to their homes. The officers, in respect to all arms and
descriptions of force, giving the usual parole, that the said
rank and file, as well as themselves, shall not serve again
until duly exchanged.
184 ARMY ADYANCES INTO THB INTERIOR.
6. All the materiel o{ war, and all public property of every
description found in the city, the castle of San Juan d'UUoa,
and their dependencies, to belong to the United States ; but
the armament of the same (not injured or destroyed in the
further prosecution of the actual war) may be considered as
liable to be restored to Mexico by a definitive treaty^of peace.
6. The sick and wounded Mexicans to be allowed to re-
main in the city, with such medical officers of the army as
may be necessary to their care and treatment.
7. Absolute protection is solemnly guarantied to persons
in the city, and property, and it is clearly understood that no
private building or property is to be taken or used by the
forces of the United States, without previous arrangement
with the owners, and for a fair equivalent.
8. Absolute freedom of religious worship and ceremonies
is solemnly guarantied.
We must now resume the march of Scott's army to the
capital of Mexico. Worth is appointed (for the time)
governor of Vera Cruz. The army is organized, for an
advance on the Jalapa road — ^but wagons are wanting.
Eight thousand men are to be thrown forward into the
heart of Mexico. Quantities of ammunition, provisions,
cannon, arms, are to be carried. Yet the wagons,
horses, and mules which are to do this service, are not yet
arrived. A little while since, and they were two thousand
miles off, in the heart of the United States. But they will
come. They are descending the Ohio and the Missis-
sippi. They will he here. One by one, dozen by dozen,
they arrive. On the 8th of April, ten days after the sur-
render of Vera Cruz, the veteran Twiggs, with his heroic
division, takes the Jalapa road. Other divisions rapidly
follow. In three days they reach the foot of the moim-
\\
RBACH88 CERRO GORDO. 186
tains, from whose heights may be seen the splendid vision
of Orizaba, and its snow-crowned tops, along whose ridges
the road continues to the ancient capital of the Montezu-
mas ; and from whose almost impregnable summits looks
down Santa Anna with fifteen thousand men. The Mex-
ican chief, defeated at Buena Vista, had rapidly traversed
the interior provinces with the greater part of his army,
and now sought to defend the heights of Cerro Gordo,
formidable by nature, with batteries and intrcnchments.
Here Twiggs makes a reconnoissance on the 12th, and
determines to attack the enemy next morning. In the
meanwhile Patterson arrives with vohmteers, and delays
the attack till the arrival of the gcneral-in-chief. Scott
makes a new reconnoissance, and perceives that an attack
in front would be in vain, for the batteries there are com-
manded by the still higher ones on the summits of Cerro
Gordo. He orders a road to be cut to the right of the
American army, but to the left of Cerro Gordo, which
winds round the base of the mountains and ascends them
in the rear of the Mexican forts, there rejoining the Jalapa
road, and behind the whole Mexican position. The labor,
the skill, the courage of American soldiers accomplish it.
For three days the Mexicans do not discover it. It is
nearly done on the 17th, when they fire with grape and
musketry on the working parties. Twiggs again advan-
ces to the storm. He carries the hill below Cerro Gordo,
but above the new road. All is safe now, and all is ready
for the coming battle. On the 17th of April Scott issues
his celebrated order, dated Plan del Rio. It details, with
prophetic accuracy, the movements of the following day —
the positions, the attack, the battle, the victory, and the
hot pursuit, till the spires of Jalapa should appear in
Q8
186 OKMBRAL SCOTT^S ORDER.
sight. It 18 an order moat remarkable in history. Here
It is: —
General Orders, No. 111.
HlADQUAETBKB OF THB AeMT, )
Plan del Rio, April 17, 1847. )
The enemy's whole line of intrenchments and batteries
will be attacked in front, and at the same time turned, early
in the day to-morrow — probably before ten o'clock, a. m.
The second (Twiggs') division of regulars is already ad-
vanced within easy turning distance towards the enemy's
left. That division has instructions to move forward before
daylight to-morrow, and take up a position across the national
road in the enemy's rear, so as to cut off a retreat towards
Xalapa. It may be reinforced to-day, if unexpectedly at-
tacked in force, by regiments^-one or two taken from Shields'
brigade of volunteers. If not, the two volunteer regiments
will march for that purpose at daylight to-morrow morning,
under Brigadier-general Shields, who will report to Brigadier-
general Twiggs, on getting up with him, or the general-in-
chief, if he be in advance.
The remaining regiment of that volunteer brigade will re-
ceive instructions in the course of this day.
The first division of regulars (Worth's) will follow the
movement against the enemy's left at sunrise to-morrow
morning.
As already arranged, Brigadier-general Pillow's brigade
will march at six o'clock to-morrow morning along the route
he has carefully reconnoitred, and stand ready as soon as he
hears the report of arms on our right, or sooner if circum-
stances should favor him, to pierce the enemy's line of bat-
teries at such point — the nearer the river the better — as he
may select. Once in the rear of that line, he will turn to
the right or left, or both, and attack the batteries in reverse;
ITS FUUriLMKNT. 187
or, if abandoned, he will pursue the enemy with vigor until
further orders.
Wall's field battery and the cavalry will be held in reserve
on the national road, a little out of view and range of the
enemy's batteries. They will take up that position at nine
o'clock in the morning.
The enemy's batteries being carried or abandoned, all our
divisions and corps will pursue with vigor.
This pursuit may be continued many miles, until stopped
by darkness or fortified positions towards ^alapa. Conse-
quently, the body of the army will not return to this encamp-
ment, but be followed to-morrow afternoon, or early the next
morning, by the baggage trains of the several corps. For
thb purpose, the feebler officers and men of each corps will
be left to guard its camp and effects, and to load up the lat-
ter in the wagons of the corps. A commander of the pres-
ent encampment will be designated in the course of this day.
As soon as it shall be known that the enemy's works have
been carried, or that the general pursuit has been com-
menced, one wagon for each regiment and one for the cavalry
will follow the movement, to receive, under the directions of
medical officers, the wounded and disabled, who will be
brought back to this place for treatment in general hospital.
The Surgeon-general will organize this important service
and designate that hospital, as well as the medical officers to
be leA at it.
Every man who marches out to attack or pursue the ene-
my, will take the usual allowance of ammunition, and sub-
sistence for at least two days.
By command of Maj. Gren. Scott,
H. L. SCOTT, A. A. A. General.
The order thus given was realized to the letter, with
the exception that General Pillow's brigade was repulsed
GEBBQ GOm&.
I
BATTLE OF CERRO GORDO. 189
in the attack on the batteries in front. They were, how-
ever, taken, and their garrisons made prisoners, by the
advanced corps of the army, at the close of the battle.
In each particular — of march, battle, victory, and pursuit
— the order of Scott was prophetically correct. It proves
the confidence of the commander in the indomitable en-
ergy of his troops. On the night of that day, (the 17th^)
the enemy's position appears almost impregnable. On
their right rolls a deep river. Along its side rises a chain
of mountains one thousand feet in height. On these,
heavy batteries frown down on all below. Over all rises
the summit and tower of Cerro Gordo. Winding among
the gorges of these mountains, and at last turning between
the highest battery and the river below, is the National
road, by which only the American army must pass. The
Anglo-American soldier looks out from his camp at Plan
del Rio, and sees this deep river on the side, this rampart
of mountains in front, the high batteries beyond, and
knows that the Mexican chief, with fifteen thousand men,
is encamped on these mountains thus strongly defended.
How shall he be attacked ? The general order points out
each step in the way.
On the night of the 17th, a thousand men of Twiggs'
division are detailed on their route to plant an American
battery on the captured hill below Cerro Gordo. A heavy
twenty-four-pounder was brought up, and two twenty-
four-pound howitzers. These were dragged by main
force up the hill, hundreds of feet high, in a night of total
darkness. A fire is built below, and the officers and men
are told to take the cannon straight up. They are already
fatigued, exhausted, and parched with thirst; but they
stop not for these. They are divided into two parties, of
^
190 BATTLE CONTINUED.
five hundred men each, for relief. They drag the pieces
up with the hands. Here they stop, block up, and chain
the wheels, till they are relieved by the other division.
Again they go on, and again they relieve. Thus they go
on from seven in the evening till three in the morning.
The ground is covered with exhausted soldiers, some to
sleep and some to rest. But the cannon are carried up.
The morning finds them on the hill, and as the rosy light
blushes in the heavens, the soft music of the Mexican
reveillee is heard summoning their men to the muster.
The batteries and encampments are revealed. The fine
body of Mexican lancers, in splendid uniforms, and with
an unfurled standard, are moving along. Here battalions
of artillery, and there a dense colunm of infantry, arrest
the attention. Below and above are batteries darkly
threatening to open their fire. This captured position
thus commands all the defences but Cerro Gordo. But
that is above. Tliat can fire down upon every position
which could be taken. It is plain, then, that the fort of
Cerro Gordo is the key position of all the resL This
the discriminating eye of military science had clearly
seen. Scott sees it, and has prepared for it. Hence the
new road was made, winding, as you see, around the
base of the mountain to our right, but to the left of Cerro
Gordo, so that this citadel of the Mexican camp may be
stormed from the flank, and the retreat of the troops by
the National road cut off. Hence/iKllow*s brigade is to
attack their batteries on the front ldi[4rampart, and either
take them, or divert their attention from^our flank move-
ment. Hence, the night work of our men, so that our
new hill-fort may command these batteries of the enemy,
and at the right moment compel their surrender. AU is
#
'•
iiUjSf^ ^Wv
I?..
BATTLB CONTINUED. 191
well done. All is ready. The night-watch is past.
Twiggs' division, which has rested on its arms, is rousing
itself at the first hght. The gallant artillerymen and en-
gineers on the hill cut away the light brush in front of
their guns, and now the heavy cannon begin their fire on
the hill batteries. Their thunder tones are echoed from
the mountain sides, and returned from the pieces of the
enemy. The division of Twiggs is marching. The vol-
unteers of Shields are hurrying on to seize the Jalapa
road in rear of Santa Anna. Cerro Gordo now opens its
plunging fire on Twiggs, and the issue has come. Cerro
Gordo must be stormed. The storm is led by the gallant
Harney. They fight under the eye of Scott. Here march
the rifles, the 1st artillery, the 7th infantry ; and near themi
and with them storming the heights, are the 2d and the
3d infantry, and the 4th artillery. These are the regulars
of Twiggs, and here they march up the rocky ascent, so
steep that they must climb as they go, and with no cover-
ing but the very steepness of the hill. They receive a
plunging fire in front and a rolling fire on the flanks — but,
on they go. On — on, Harney leads his men. The front
rank melts away before the shot ; but they stop not till
the hill is gained, and then a long and loud shout echoes
from the mountain sides — Cerro Gordo is gained ! Vas-
quez, the Mexican general, is killed in the fortress. Now
the flags of the 1st artillery and 7th infantry are planted
on the batteries, and now Sergeant Henry hauls down the
national standard of Mexico. The Anglo-American again
unfurls the flag of his country, and again renews the vic-
tories of Cortez. But where are the volunteers ? Yet
furthei to the right, and hastening to the Jalapa road,
They storm a fort in front — the heroic Shields is shot
>• -n>» •'►-.
192 RESULT OF THE BATTLE.
through the lungs — but the fort is taken — the road is
gained — and the flying army of Santa Anna is pursued in
all directions.
On the river batteries in front, Pillow's attack is not
successful. The batteries enfilade our men, and after
bravely fighting, they are drawn back ; but their effort is
not lost. The corps of General La Vega is kept em-
ployed till Cerro Gordo has fallen. Then he surrenders,
with three thousand men prisoners of war. Santa Anna,
with Almonte, Canalizo, and eight thousand have escaped,
leaving carriages and baggage behind, and are now on the
road to Jalapa. The sun is at noon, and the battle is end-
ed ; but the pursuit continues. The reserve division of
Worth comes up, passes Twiggs, and hurries rapidly on
after the confused and flying Mexicans ; nor does he slop
till Jalapa appears in sight !
On the 19th of April, from Plan del Rio, Scott an-
nounces to the War Department, that he is embarrassed
with the results of victory ! Three thousand prisoners,
forty-three pieces of bronze artillery manufactured at Se-
ville, five thousand stand of arms, five generals, with the
munitions and materials of an army, captured in a single
battle, are the fruits of victory, and demand the earnest
care of the conquering general ! The men must be pa-
roled ; the small-arms must be destroyed ; we have not
men to take care of them.
Such was THE Battle of Cerro Gordo. In the skill
with which it was planned, in the formidable defences to
be surmounted, in the heroism of the attack, and in the
magnitude of results, with which of American battles will
it not compare ? There were almost impassable obsta-
cles, surmounted by skill ; there were almost impregnable
OBN. SCOTT^S DB8PATCHSB. 197
proportion of field and company officers, besides five generals,
several of them of great distinction — Pinson, Jarrero, La
Vega, Noriega, and Obando. A sixth general, Vasquez,
was killed in defending the battery (tower) in the rear of the
whole Mexican army, the capture of which gave us those
glorious results.
Our loss, 'though comparatively small in numbers, has
been serious. Brigadier-general Shields, a commander of
activity, zeal, and talent, is, I fear, if not dead, mortally
wounded. He is some five miles from me at the moment.
The field of operations covered many miles, broken by
mountains and deep chasms, and I have not a report, as yet,
from any divisiop or brigade.
Twiggs* division, followed by Shields' (now Col. Baker's)
brigade, are now at or near Xalapa, and Worth's division is
in route thither, all pursuing, with good results, as I learn,
that part of the Mexican army — perhaps six or seven thou-
sand men — who had fled be&re our right had carried the
tower, and gained the Xalapa road.
Pillow's brigade alone, is near me at this depot of wounded,
sick, and prisoners ; and I have time only to give from him
the names of 1st Lieut. F. B. Nelson, and 2d C. 6. Hill, both
of the 2d Tennessee foot, (Haskell's regiment,) among the
killed, and in the brigade 106, of all ranks, killed or wounded.
Among the latter, the gallant Brigadier-general himself
has a smart wound in the arm, but not disabled ; and Major
R. Farqueson, 2d Tennessee, Captain H. F. Murray, 2d
Lieut. G. T. Sutherland, 1st Lieut. W. P. Hale, Adjutant,
all of the same regiment, severely, and 1st Lieut. W. Year-
wood, mortally wounded. And I know, from personal obser-
vation on the ground, that 1st Lieut. Ewell, of the rifles, if
not now dead, was mortally wounded in entering, sword in
hand, the intrenchments around the captured tower.
2d Lieut. Derby, topographical engineers, I also saw, at
r2
BATTLE OP CeaRO OORDO. 189
in the attack on the batteries in front. They were, how-
ever, taken, and their garrisons made prisoners, by the
advanced corps of the army, at the close of the battle.
In each particular — of march, battle, victory, and pursuit
— the order of Scott was prophetically correct. It proves
the confidence of the commander in the indomitable en-
ergy of his troops. On the night of that day, (the 17th,)
the enemy's position appears almost impregnable. On
their right rolls a deep river. Along its side rises a chain
of mountains one thousand feet in height. On these,
heavy batteries frown down on all below. Over all rises
the summit and tower of Cerro Gordo. Winding among
the gorges of these mountains, and at last turning between
the highest battery and the river below, is the National
road, by which only the American army must pass. The
Anglo-American soldier looks out from his camp at Plan
del Rio, and sees this deep river on the side, this rampart
of mountains in front, the high batteries beyond, and
knows that the Mexican chief, with fifteen thousand men,
is encamped on these mountains thus strongly defended.
How sh^l he be attacked ? The general order poinu out
each step in the way.
On the night of the 17th, a thousand men of Twiggs'
division are detailed on their route to plant an American
battery on the captured hill below Cerro Gordo. A heavy
twenty-four-pounder was brought up, and two twenty-
four-pound howitzers. These were dragged by main
force up the hill, hundreds of feet high, in a night of total
darkness. A fire is built below, and the officers and men
are told to take the cannon straight up. They are already
fatigued, exhausted, and parched with thirst ; but they
•top not for theie. They are divided into two parties, of
I
BATTLE OF CERRO GORDO. 189
in the attack on the batteries in front. They were, how-
ever, taken, and their garrisons made prisoners, by the
advanced corps of the army, at the close of the battle.
In each particular — of march, battle, victory, and pursuit
— the order of Scott was prophetically correct. It proves
the confidence of the commander in the indomitable en-
ergy of his troops. On the night of that day, (the 17th^)
the enemy's position appears almost impregnable. On
their right rolls a deep river. Along its side rises a chain
of mountains one thousand feet in height. On these,
heavy batteries frown down on all below. Over all rises
the summit and tower of Cerro Gordo. Winding among
the gorges of these mountains, and at last turning between
the highest battery and the river below, is the National
road, by which only the American army must pass. The
Anglo-American soldier looks out from his camp at Plan
del Rio, and sees this deep river on the side, this rampart
of mountains in front, the high batteries beyond, and
knows that the Mexican chief, with fifteen thousand men,
is encamped on these mountains thus strongly defended.
How shall he be attacked ? The general order points out
each step in the way.
On the night of the 17th, a thousand men of Twiggs'
division are detailed on their route to plant an American
battery on the captured hill below Cerro Gordo. A heavy
twenty-four-pounder was brought up, and two twenty-
fouT-pound howitzers. These were dragged by main
force up the hill, hundreds of feet high, in a night of total
darkness. A fire is built below, and the officers and men
are told to take the cannon straight up. They are already
fatigued, exhausted, and parched with thirst; but they
stop not for these. They are divided into two parties, of
CHAPTER X.
ESntmnce of the American Anny into Paebliu — Mexican Account —
American Officers* — Conduct of the Army. — Situatiou of Puebla. —
Character of the Country. — ^The ancient Cholula. — Strength of the
Army. — Scott'e Proclamation. — Humanity of the Army. — Mission of
Trist — Reasons for remaining in Puebla. — Drilling of the Array. —
^ Raising new Regiments. — New Volunteers. — Attack on the Train of
M'Intosh. — Advance of Pierce. — Concentration of the Army.
In a morning of the beautiful month of May, and with-
m the tropical zone, the American army of the north
entered the " City of the Angels ;^ in the Spanish tongue,
Puebla de los Angelas. They came with the renown,
sounding far in advance, of San Juan de Ulloa captured,
and the heights of Cerro Gordo victoriously stormed.
They had landed on the shores of the Mexican Gulf,
intrenched themselves in the wind-driven sands, battered
the defences of Vera Cru^, received the surrender of the
castle, and marched two hundred miles into the land of
the Spanish-Aztec Americans. The National Bridge had
been passed, Jalapa had surrendered, Perote made no
resistance, and now the bold invaders of Mexico ap-
proached a city surrounded by the monuments of ancient
civilization, and deemed fit, in the warm imagination of
southern climes, for celestial residents. It was natural
that such an army, the heralds too of a new and ex
traordinary republic, should be received by the inhabitants
with mingled feelings of fear, surprise, and curiosity.
\
ARMY ENTERS PUEBLA. 803
■ir
Accordingly, the citizens of Puebla crowdfl4 the street
and filled the balconies on the line with spectators.
Near- noon the division of Worth eniejred the city, the
artillery and infantry forming in the square, and the train
of wagons extending from the street of Mercadores to the
bridge of Nocte Buena.^ The troops were fatigued with
their march, and needed both rest and refreshment This
weary aspect, the fact that many of them had been ill, the
common gray undress uniform, and the plain truth that
they were neither giants nor centaurs, disappointed the
vivid imaginations of the Mexicans of Puebla, who had
supposed that the conquerors of Cerro Gordo were some-
thing marvellous in appearance or superhuman in power.
The spectators turned from the scene with surprise, and
asked themselves. How have these men become the con-
querors of Mexico ?
One of the most intelligent of the Mexican citizens,
writing from Puebla two days after the entrance of the
American army, thus expresses his disappointment at the
appearance of that army, and endeavors to solve the prob-
lem proposed by its achievements : —
*^ Nor does their armament seem to me any thing ex-
traordinary. In a word, except the draught-horses, which
are very good, I assure you, without exaggeration, that
these men bring nothing that we have not seen a thou-
sand times. Even the immense number of their wagons
is not a proof of large stores. The wagons are all empty,
and I understood their principal use to be for the trans-
port of troops. How, then, have they done what they
* Letter from a native of PneUa, dated May 16tb, and pnbliahed in
the London Timeib
y
2M SURPUSS OF THS MEXICANS.
have? How have they continually beaten our anny,
which not only surpasses them in appearance — for that is
unquestionable — but in my opinion has real and positive
advantages over them ? Every one asks this question, to
which there is but one reply. Their leaders, and par-
ticularly the colonels of regiments, are old gray-haired
men. Their gray hairs explain the phenomenon. This
makes me still rely on our soldiers, and gives me for the
future some hopes, which we require more than ever."^
This solution of the problem was at least partially cor-
rect. The officers of the American army have expe-
rience, skill, and science. Many of them served in the
campaigns of 1813, 1814, and 1815, against the veteran
soldiers of GVeat Britain ; many of them were bred at the
military school at West Point — the equal, and in some
things the superior, of any school of military instruction
in the world. All of them have been accustomed to the
discipline of their profession, and are perfectly acquainted
with the superior energies which the republican habits
and intellectual vivacity of their countrymen have devel-
oped in war. The army of the United States is not in-
trusted to weak or ill-instructed hands ; but to officers
skilled in the science and experience of the duties of the
military art — a fact as honorable to the legislative sagacity
of the republic, as its acliievements in arms have proved
illustrious in history.
The soldiers piled their arms in the public square,
and although surrounded by thousands of a hostile popu-
lation, lay down to sleep, in perfect confidence that the
enemy could not and dare not disturb them. No higher
' Letter of the natnre of Poelilm.
\
DBSC&IPTION OF PU^LA. 205
evidence could be given of that sense of absolute superi-
ority and of resistless energy, which is uniformly felt by
American troops — the sense that they are predestined to
rictory, no matter by whom, in what numbers, or in what
manner opposed. On the following day they took pos-
session of the hills of Loreto and Guadaloupe, and artil-
lery was sent to the hill of San Juan. General Worth
paid the compliment of a visit to the Bishop of Puebla,
and the bishop, in returning it, was received at the quarters
of Worth with the honors paid to a general. Affably and
respectfully did the American officers mingle with the
people ; and for a time the stern countenance of war
seemed to be lighted up with the smiles of beneficence,
and its fearful strifes deferred to a peaceful harmony.
The city of Puebla is situated on that vast j)lain which,
in its height above the sea and the character of its pro-
ductions, is the most singular portion of the earth.
This plain is seven thousand feet high, and although
wholly within the torrid zone, is cafled the tierras frias,
or the cold grounds. The climate of a country depends
as much upon altitude as latitude, and hence these lofty
plains are called cold, and really produce the grains and
firuits of the most temperate climes.^ Wheat of the finest
quality, our Indian corn, barley, and fruits peculiar to this
region, constitute the staple productions and elementary
food of the inhabitants. Within this tropical but really
temperate zone of lofty plains, and encircled by the sub-
lime range of the Cordilleras, lies the province of Puebla.
Its soil is scattered over with and partly composed of
> Hnmboldf • Traveki in New Spain.
906 TMCM or TBS comrrsT.
the Tokramc lemains of ancieot cooTuIsioDS.^ The lara is
strewed urer the gromid in different rarieties, bearing m
lesemblance to the cinders of an iron-furnace. On the
tops of the highest and most magnificent moontains may
be found the craters whence in ages past hare streamed
oot these rich but dangerous ingredients of the soil.
Tet, with all this, the earth is there garnished with but
bttle of that beauty of foliage and that abundance of Te^e-
table production which so distinguishes the great alluTiais
of the United States of the north. The cactus ^ that c:.:^
criminating inhabitant of barren lands, is still frequent,
and, except within a few miles of Puebla, the whole road
from Vera Cruz to that city presents but a few scrubby
boshes, some palms, and this unproductive cactus, called
in this country the prickly-pear.' In the neighborhoc^i
of Puebia, cultirated fields and waring grain indicate
that husbandry has resumed its occupation, and that mm.
a resident of cities, has higher demands for food and lux-
ury than the natural truits or natural grasses can supply.
He is still, however, the man of two thousand years ago.
Time, which has reyolutionized empires and established
the supremacy of science in other lands, has left the
Spanish Aztec, the unchanged image of his ancient fa-
thers, in the indolence of his life and the fixedness of his
habits. In rain has inrention created arts, and genius
startled a worid with its wonderful achierements. He
uses the plough of two thousand years since, employs
oxen instead of horses, folds his arms in contemptuous
|ffide, and sees the worid, and its exhibitions of powct
* Waddy Thonpnii's RrwIhctinM if Means p^e 17.
ANCIENT CHOLULA. 207
and wonder in science, pass by him, with the frigidity of
indolence and the indifference of contempt ! In this state
was once one of the most numerous populations of the
ancient Mexicans, yet it now scarcely contains fifty to a
square mile — a number large compared with most of the
provinces of Mexico, yet small compared with the popu-
lous nations which inhabited here in the time of Cortez.'
It was then the seat of the Tlascalans and Cholulans —
people who had advanced far in the arts, and whose
monuments were among the greatest of the earth. Six
miles from the present city of Pjaebla was the great city
of Cholula, which once contained two hundred thousand
inhabitants, and where Cortez beheld the towers of four
hundred idol temples ! Of this great city not a vestige
remains ! Not a brick nor a stone stands upon another !
One monument stands in gloomy and solitary grandeur
amidst the vast plain which surrounded it.* This is the
great pjrramid, truncated at top, and supposed to have
been dedicated to the worship of th#gods of the Aztecs.
This pyramid is one of the most remarkable among the
ruins of ancient nations. It is 1440 feet on the side, at
the base, 177 feet in height, and 45,210 square feet on
the summit.'
In the midst of these ruins of ancient empires, sur-
rounded by these mountains, upon this high plain, looking
out upon these lava-covered fields, and through the clear,
vivid, brilliant atmosphere of tropical highlands, is the
city of Puebla. It now contains about eighty thousand
' Cortez and Bemal Diaz.
* Waddy ThompMrn's ReeoUectkna of
* DttKi^iCioii of Humboldt
208 scott's army reaches puebla.
inhabitants. It is a beautiful city, well built, with lofty
houses, broad streets, and fine public buildings.^ Here,
at two hundred nriles from the city of Vera Cruz on the
Gulf of Mexico, and ninety from Mexico, the heart of the
Aztec empire, the small but brave and glorious army of
Scott arrived on the 15th of May, 1847. With com-
plexions sallowed, and disabled by the unwholesome
climate of Vera Cruz — in the gray undress uniform of the
United States, and wearied with many miles of tedious
march, the army entered this Mexioan city, to surprise its
inhabitants as much by the inferiority of its appearance
as it had done by the greatness of its deeds. Were these
indeed to be the conquerors of Mexico ? Where were the
far-famed heroe^ of Cerro Gordo ? Time, however, was
to convince the Pueblans, in a yet more startling mannt;r,
that the energy of the American soldier could be revived
to greater actions, and the glory of former battles be ob-
scured by the brightness of those to come.
The army, as it entered Puebla, was stated by a Mexi-
can eye-witness to have numbered four thousand two
hundred and ninety effective men, with thirteen pieces
of artillery.* This was the marching force at that
point. On that day and at that place the number given
was very nearly correct. Scott's force at that lime capa-
ble of marching on Mexico did not exceed /our thousand
five hundred men. A slight review, of the preceding
events and circumstances will explain this fact, and show
that such was a necessary consequence of the measures
taken by the government, and the losses necessarily sus
' Letter from a native of Puebla.
•Ibid
0irFICULTIB8 TO BB MET. 209
lained in a distant campaign in a foreign land. In May,
1846, Congress had authorized the President to call out
fifty thousand volunteers. Twenty-three regiments had
been called out in May and June. The time for which
they were called out was but twelve months, and expired
in May, 1847. Several of these regiments were in the
army of Scott, and had been discharged on the way to
Puebla. Sickness also had been rife among the troops.
The camp dysentery, so common and so fatal among
armies, had disabled many and destroyed others. At
Vera Cruz, at Cerro Gordo, and in other engagements
and skirmishes, not a few of the brave men who landed
in Mexico had fallen a sacrifice to the bloody rites of war.
The army, when concentrated at the Island of Lobos,
had numbered fourteen thousand men; but thus re-
duced by sickness, by discharges, and by death, in ad-
dition to the garrisons required, not more than five thou-
sand (exclusive of the garrison of Jalapa) capable of
moving in arms could be assembled to march against the
capital of Mexico. What were they to do ? Were the
laurels of many battles and the glory of victorious cam-
paigns to be risked, in the heart of a ho8til&^riii|ek){i, .^th
so small a band ? Already had complaints of defey b^n
made and repeated by the unthinking friends of the ad-
ministration. They seemed to imagine that armies had
nothing to do but march and fight, and that these should
be done, by Americans, with a speed which surpassed all
human experience ; that they neither required sleep nor
bread, baggage nor transportation ; but that, heedless of
supplies and regardless of opposition, they should hurry
(m to the end, rivalling the winds and trusting in a pre-
destined victory ! Such a compliment was not unde-
83 14
810 DBCISION or THB CABINET.
senred by the skQful commander and heroic soldiers of
the army of Mexico ; but eyen they ought not to have
been expected to perform such unprecedented achieve-
ments. With this small array, however, impelled by the
natural ardor of a successful general, and in reliance upon
the invincible energies of the American soldier, would
Scott have proceeded at once to the city of Mexico, but
for other and unexpected interferences.
The cabinet at Washington had from the commence
ment of the war professed an anxious desire to terminate
the controversy with Mexico, in any way honorable to the
United States. General Scott, animated by ihe same
desire, and conscious that no useful end was to be gained
by carrying the terrors of martial law among the people pf
Mexico, beyond that of securing a permanent peace, had
already addressed from Jalapa, a humane and reasoning
proclamation to the Mexican people, stating to them the
plain facts in their own condition, the events of the war,
the unskilfulness of their leaders, the burdens imposed
upon them, and the already foreshadowed results of this
drama of conquest. This document^ is one of the finest
specimens of military literature, both for the matter it
contains and the manner of its composition. Having re-
cited the civil and military events which preceded the
battle of Cerro Gordo, the commander of the army pro-
ceeds to say —
Finally, the bloody event of Cerro Gordo has shown the
Mexican nation what it may reasonably expect if it longer
continues blind to the true situation in which it has been
* Scott's Pnelamatkm, dated Jalapa, May 11, 1847.
Scott's proclamation. 211
placed by some generals, whom it has most distinguished
and in whom it has most confided.
The hardest heart would be moved to grief in contem.
plating the battle-fields of Mexico a moment after the last
struggle. Those generals whom the nation has, without
service rendered, paid &r so many years, with some honor-
able exceptions, have in the day of need betrayed it by their
example or unskilfulness. On that field, among the dead
and dying, are seen no proofs of military honor, for they are
reduced to the sad fate of the soldier — the same on every
occasion^ from Palo Alto to Cerro Gordo-^the dead to remain
unburied, and the wounded abandoned to the charity and
clemency of the conqueror. Soldiers who go to fight ex-
pecting such a recompense, deserve to be classed among the
best in the world, since they are stimulated by no hope of
ephemeral glory, of regret, of remembrance, or even of a
grave.
Again, Mexicans of honorable pride — contemplate the lot
of peaceful and laborious citizens in all classes of your so-
ciety. The possessions of the Church menaced and held out
as an incitement to revolution and anarchy ; the fortune of
the rich proprietors pointed out for plunder to the ill-disposed ;
the merchant and the artisan, the laborer and the manufac-
turer, burdened with contributions, excises, monopolies, taxes
upon consumption, surrounded with restrictions and charged
with odious internal customs; the man of letters and the
statesman, the man of liberal knowledge who dares to speak,
persecuted without trial by some factions or by the rulers
who abuse their power; criminals unpunished and set at
liberty, as were those of Perots— is this, then, Mexicans, the
liberty which you enjoy 1
I will not believe that the Mexicans of the present day art
wanting in courage to ooq&ss errors which do not dishonoi
218 scott's proclamation.
them, and to adopt a system of true liberty, of peace, and
union with their brethren and neighbors of the north ; neither
will I belioTe that they are ignorant of the falsity of the
calumnies of the press, intended to excite hostility. No!
public sentiment is not to be created or animated by false-
hood. We have not profaned your temples, nor abv^i^ your
women, nor seized your property, as they would :liin^ you
belieye.
We say this with pride, and we confirm it by your' own
bishops, and by the clergy of Tampico, Tuspan, Matamoras,
Monterey, Vera Cruz, and Jalapa, and by all the authorities
civil and religious, and the inhabitants of every town we
have occupied. We adore the same Grod, and a large por.
tion of our army, as well as of the population of the United
States, are Catholics, like yourselves. We punish crime
wherever we find it, and reward merit and virtue.
The army of the United States respects, and will always
respect, private property of every description, and the prop-
erty of the Mexican church.
Mexicans ! the past cannot be remedied, but the future
may be provided for. Repeatedly have I shown you that
the government and people of the United States desire peace,
desire your sincere friendship.
Abandon, then, rancorous prejudices, cease to be the ^wrt
of individual amlution, and conduct yourselves like a great
American nation ; leave off at once colonial habits, and
learn to be truly free, truly republican, and you will become
prosperous and happy, for you possess all the elements to be
90. Remember that you are Americans, and that your hap-
piness is not to come from Europe.
I desire, in ooodusioQ, to declare, and with equal frank-
riess, that, if necessary, an army of one hundred thousand
xmld promptly be hiXM^t, and that the United States woulJ
Scott's proclamation. 213
not tenninate their difl*erences with Mexico (if compelled to
do so by force of arms) in any manner uncertain, precari«
ous, or dishonoring to yourselves. I should insult the intelli-
gent of this country if I had any doubt of their acquaintance
with this truth.
The order to form guerilla parties to attack us, I assure
you can procure nothing but eyil to your country, and no
evil to our army, which will know how to proceed against
them ; and if, so far from conciliating, you succeed in irri-
tating, you will impose upon us the hard necessity of retalia-
tion, and then you cannot blame us for the consequences
which will fall upon yourselves. ^^
I am marching with my army upon Puebla and Mexico—
I do not conceal it ; from those capitals I shall again address
you. I desire * peace, friendship, and union — it is for you to
select whether you prefer war ; under any circumstances, be
assured I shaH not fail my word.
WmnELD SCOTT.
This proclamation contains one of the best and most
correct pictures of the conduct of the Mexican army, and
the real operations of its govemment, anywhere to be
found. It is true that it was (with a few honorable ex-
ceptions) the Mexican officers and not the soldiers who
had been wanting in skill, energy, or courage. The
battle-fields, as here depicted, were strewed with the
dead soldiers of the Mexican army; but in some instances
the officers had retreated in haste, in some they were
unwilling to fight, and in all they had shown a deficiency
in military education, utterly incompetent to meet in suc-
cessful contest the superior skill and the wonderfully
developed power of modem military science. It was
true, also, that the govemment of Mexico was one of une-
214 COMMISSIONBR TRI8T AKRIVE5.
qual burdens and of unstable power. It depended rather
upon the will of military chiefs than the affections of the
people. It imposed burdens by caprice rather than prin-
djfle. It fettered trade by restrictions alike unjust and
unnecessary. It was true, and as honorable as true, that
the army of Scott had signalized the humanity of modem
warfare by a forbearance of all the barbarities of con-
quest. It had seized no individual property, destroyed
no church structures, violated no private rights, and im-
posed no contributions upon a prostrate population. The
armies of Mexico were indeed swept from its paths with
the fearful might of destruction, but they were swept
away only in pursuance of the acknowledged rights of
war, and left behind no mournful evidences of a vindic-
tive malice. It was war and not barbarism which bore
over the fields of Mexico the unfolded banner of the
North American republic.
Such was the professed disposition of the United States
government towards Mexico, such the address of General
Scott, and such the humane manner in which the war
had been carried on, when an agent of the cabinet in
Washington arrived in Mexico to negotiate peace. This
person was Mr. Nicholas P. Trist, chief clerk in the de-
partment of state. From the hostile attitude of the two
governments towards each othet, he could not come in the
character of a regularly appointed envoy — a character only
consistent with a state of peace. He did come, however,
with certain letters from the cabinet at Washington to
persons in Mexico, and with powers, on certain terms, as
a commissioner to conclude a treaty of peace.^ Mr.
' Mr. Polk's oeBcial oommMion to Trirt.
V
REASONS FOR REMAINIMG AT PUEBLA. 215
Trist arnved at Jaldpa just before Scott's departure for
Puebla, and immediately intimated a desire to transmit cer-
tain papers to the Mexican government. If the proposi-
tions they contained were acceptable to the authorities in
Mexico, they necessarily implied a cessation of hostilities
while the negotiations proceeded* Such was the condi-
tion of aiOfairs at Puebla in the beginning of June. With
the government commissioner anxious for peace, and actu-
ally seeking opportunities of negotiation, on the one hand,
and with an army diminished (including all its disposable
force) in efiective men to less than five thousand, Scott,
anxious to go forward, and looking with hope to the con-
summation of the campaign in the city of Mexico, was
yet compelled, by considerations both civil and military,
to remain in Puebla.
The military reasons why the army should remain at
Puebla till reinforced, were of the strongest kind, and
demanded the serious attention of the boldest commander,
even if convinced of the eptire infallibility of his troops.
The event proved their force and the superior sagacity of
the general, who, hopeful of the highest glory, and antici-
pating only victory, sacrificed this ardor of action to higk
prudential considerations. These reasons were : 1st. If
the entire five thousand men then at Puebla could be
placed at once in the city of Mexico, they were barely
sufficient to constitute a common garrison, impotent to
move in any direction, or to overawe the Mexican govern-
ment by any demonstrative movement. 2d. In this de-
fensive, shut-up position, they must remain for months,
before reinforcements could arrive^ sufficiently strong to
' The brigade of Pierce did not arrive at Puebla till the 5th of AagiMt.
SooU's official daepatch, (No. 34,) dated September 18th.
316 NBCB88ITT FOR DELAY.
- authorize any offensive moyement. 3d. The main body
of the army of Santa Anna was yet unbroken, and at this
period it would have been his poUcy to leave the Ameri-
can army to shut itself up in Mexico, while he fell, in
succession, on the advancing bodies of new troops march-
ing to reinforce Scott. In this, he would either have
defeated them or have prevented their junction. 4<A. Al-
varez, with a division of four thousand men, was within
striking distance of Puebla,^ and on the advance of Scott
to Mexico would have taken possession of the post he
left, and cut off all communication with his rear.' In fine,
it is only remarkable that the commander or his officers
should have at all entertained the idea of advancing with
' so small a force. That persons in the United States
should have thought their delay singular, only proved that
they were very little acquainted with military affairs, and
that they believed, that by some extraordinary decree of
Heaven the army was rendered invulnerable to misfor-
tune, and predestined to inevitable victory. It has, in-
deed, realized such a destiny ; but only by science the
most accomplished, by sagacity the most penetrating, and
by valor the most indomitable. The children of destiny
are first made such by the energy of their own character,
and the superiority of their own minds.
Such was the necessity , both civil and military, which
constrained General Scott to restrain his desire to ad-
vance, and maintain the army at Puebla. Nor was it
> Mr. Kendall's letter, dated October 15th, 1847.
* Let the reader recollect, that notwithstanding all the reinforcements
which arrived between May and September, General Scott's communica-
tions with Vera Cruz were cut off during the whole period for want of
troops to keep them open !
SCOTT REINFORCED. 217
unemployed or useless delay. Whatever gives an army
discipline gives it strength. More than thirty years pre-
vious, Scott had, in the camp at Buffalo, availed himself of
such an opportunity to drill and discipline the men whose
valor and firmness had withstood the veteran troops of
Great Britain on the fields of Chippewa and Niagara.
Such experience was not lost. The divisions of Worth,
Twiggs, and Quitman, were drawn out and constantly
drilled on the plains bordering Puebla, till their discipline
was complete.^ Thus was perfected the only remaining
element which was necessary to give an unexampled suc-
cess to the arms of the United States in the republic of
Mexico.
In the mean while, the cabinet at Washington had be-
come awakened to the necessity of reinforcing the army
of Scott, left alone in the midst of hostile millions. Con-
gress had authorized the enlistment of ten new regiments,
and the business of recruiting was rapidly carried on.
Recruiting-stations were established in the principal inte-
rior towns of the United States, and the spiHt of adven-
ture, the high pay, and the bounty lands so liberally
offered by the government, were rapidly filling the ex-
hausted ranks of the army. Kew volunteer regiments
were called out ; but this resource was not taken till too
late to supply the places of the levy of 1846, whose time
expired in May. General Scott had been obliged to dis-
charge the portion of these connected with his army, at
Jalapa. The want of foresight in not preparing for this
event was the real reason why the army of Scott was.
> KendaU'i letter, of October 15th, 1847.
T
218 M'iMTOSH AOVANCKS.
numerically, too small to advance, without hazard, at once
from Puebla.
Soon after Scott arrived at that place the garrison of
Jalapa was broken up, the army not being strong enough
to spare such a detachment. Perote was made a depot,
and the line of communication was left without defence
-—one of the few examples of a general trusting to the
innate energies of his army, leaving it alone in an enemy's
country, without any provision for retreat. This measure
was, however, one of necessity ; for, taking the received
maxims of war as the rule, the garrisons alone necessary
to keep open the line, would have consumed the entire
army !
On the 5th of May a large train, under the command
of Colonel M*Intosh, left Vera Cruz for the army. It
consisted of one hundred and thirty-two wagons, six hun-
dred pack-mules, and about eight hundred men. This
corps was attacked by a strong body of guerillas at Passo
de Ovejas. The guerillas were partially successful,
although the detachment made good its defence. The
Americans lost thirty men, killed and wounded, thirty-five
wagons, and two hundred mules. This was a serious
check ; but was soon remedied by new reinforcements.
On the 10th of May General Cadwallader marched to the
aid of M*Intosh with six hundred men, from Vera Cruz,
composed chiefly of the new regiment of voltigeurs, ac-
companied with six howitzers. A junction was made,
and the detachment, now fourteen hundred strong, with
its train, moved on, to join as soon as possible the main
army.
On the 17th of May General Pillow left Vera Cruz
with another detachment of about one thousand men.
PIERCE JOINS THE ARMY.
219
At a subsequent period General Pierce was also sent for-
ward, with about two thousand five hundred. Thus, by
successive additions of new recruits, the government was
able, after two months' delay, to increase the army of
General Scott to a number short of eleven thousand avail-
able men. With this numbei^ in the early part of August,
the army moved to the conquest of Mexico — ^the capital of
the Spanish Aztec nation ! Its progress, its victories, its
heroic conduct, and its wonderful achievements, we must
now pursue, record, and, as far as possible, spread out,
for the admiration of all true lovers of the great and
heroic in martial achievement.
" ,,, , ^BATTlEGBflKNOS
b^l^ MEXICO
\
CHAPTER XI.
Strength of the Anny.^ — ^Reinforcementfl. — DivMoos of the Army. —
March from Paebla. — Hospitals of Puebla. — ^Volcano of Popocatapetl. —
PaM of Rio Frio. — ^View of Mexico. — ^Valley of Mexico* — Lakes. —
InnndatioDS. — ^Topography of the Valley.— Positioii of the Army on
the 13th of August — ReconnaisMmce of the Rifles.-a-El Peoon. —
Mexicalcingo. — ^Taming of Lake Chalco. — March to San Augustine. —
Skirmish at Bnena Vista. — Concentration. — Position of the Army on
the 18th.
Wb have already said that Scott's army in Puebla, on
the 1st day of June, 1847, did not exceed five thousand
effectives^ — that is, capablo^iW marching and fighting.
From Vera Cruz to Puebltfthe road had been strewed
with the sick, or languishing — the convalescent invalids,
or the wounded, — who had been left in depots or were in
the moveable hospitals of the army. Here we should
recollect, and consider carefully, the wide and important
difference which exists between a mere detachment of an
an^ or light division moving rapidly through a country
forlSsmporary purposes, and a regularly organized army,
equipped to remain in the midst of a hostile nalion, and,
therefore, obliged to supply all its own wants. The
former being small, and moving rapidly for a short time,
either has no sick and wounded, or depends upon trans-
porting them in wagons or leaving them to the private
kindness of the inhabitants of the country. On the
other hand, a regularly organized army, subsisting in the
heart of an enemy^s country, must provide itself with
t2
222 CONDITION OF THB ARMT.
hospitals and depots, either moveable or stationary ; and
must there leave all the provisions, guards, men, and
equipments, which are necessary to maintain these depots,
and secure their safety and comfort. If these are
stationary in towns, (as they should be,) then garrisons
must be left with them. If moveable, from camp to
camp, they require a large number of wagons, a nu-
merous body of teamsters, and a yet more numerous
body of attendants. In either case, it is not too high
an estimate to say, that an invading army, advanced
within the territory of a hostile country, requires at
least one-fourth of its original number to be enrolled as
non-combatants, A part of these will be sick, a part
wounded, and a large part engaged as attendants, con-
voys, or garrisons. If Scott had left Jalapa, then, with
eight thousand effective men, he could not have had more
than six thousand with which to leave Puebla. But
far worse than this was the actual fact. The inhospita-
ble climate of Mexico did not cease its ravages with the
lowlands of the coast. The record of disease in the
army has never been fully unfolded. In the more uur
healthy positions on the Rio Grande, at Vera Cruz,
Tampico, Perote,^ and many other places — even at
Puebla— <lisease pursued the troops, and in the space of
one year hurried thousands to the grave. Hundreds and
thousands of the volunteer regiments also disappeared
from the army, from the effects of disease, which caused
their discharge, from voluntary absences, and frtxn being
cut off io small parties. Nor was this all. Desertions
STRENGTH OF THB ARMT. 228
from the regular army were frequent. No less than
seyenteen hundred were reported in a little more than a
year.*
Such were the causes which rapidly diminished the
number of effective troops in the field; but which
could not be properly estimated ^y those who looked
only to the muster-rolls at Washington.
Three different bodies of reinforcements had left
Vera Cruz for Puebla, and reached there in time for the
march on Mexico. With these, and the garrison of
Jalapa, the army of Scott, in the beginning of August,
may be thus enumerated :
Abut on thb 6th day of August, 1847.
Scott's forces at Puebla, (including all,) . 7,000
Cadwallader's Brigade, .... 1,400
Pillow's " • . . . 1,800
Pierce's Corps " .... 2,409
Garrison of Puebla, under Colonel Childs . 1,400
Total arrived at Puebla, .... 14,009
Deduct from this. Garrison of Puebla, )
with the sick in hospitals, )
8,261
Total marched from Puebla, . . . 10,738
Nor was the want of men the only difficulty with the
troops, in preparing for its march. Although the gov-
emment (Congress) had, in the aggregate, provided
amply for the troops ; yet the difficulty of transmitting
funds to distant posts, in a foreign country, without the
' TlMir iMUiMf wera reooided in the Poliee GaieittM.
224 WANT OF FUNDS.
aid of mercantile arrangements, was so great, that the
officers of the different departments, and of the line,
were frequently much embarrassed for funds. The
merchants of Puebla, and of Mexico generally, deal
almost altogether with England and France. They
were willing to buy drafts on those countries, but not on
our own. The consequence was, that the officers ot
the quartermaster's and commissary's departments, had
often to get money discounted at a heavy rate, for the
purchase of such supplies, in the country, as were*
needed at the moment.
The following paragraph is from a letter written on the
6th of August, at Puebla :
" General Pierce came up to-day with his command,
bringing eighty-fiye thousand dollars in drafts, but rot
one cent in money. The disappointment and vexation,
both of the general-in-chief, and the quartermaster's and
commissary's departments, is great in the extreme, and
how they are to get along, is with them an unsolved
problem. The paymaster's department is no belter off ;
and the only way officers can get along to provide them-
selves with the necessaries of life, is to first procure a
draft on one of the cities of our Union from the pay-
master, and then have it shaved at the rate of twenty-
five or thirty per cent, from its face. This is but a faint
and imperfect sketch of the financial operations of our
army."*
This was a consequence of one of the errors of the
campaign, — not on the part of the army, or its com-
mander, but in tlie War Department. This error was,
' Letter to the St Louis Republican.
COUNCIL OF WAR. 225
in leaving the army too weak to maintain its communica-
tions. It is a rule of common sense, not less than of
ihe military art, that at every step made by the army,
it should leave such defences and depots in its rear, that
there may always be a direct communication with its
source of supply at home. When the army of Scott
had arrived at Jalapa, the volunteer corps enrolled in
May and June, 1846, began to disappear. Their places
were not supplied till months afterwards. Thus the
army moved on towards Mexico, without being able to
keep open its communications. In fact, many places,
such as the National Bridge, which it was important to
defend, were abandoned. The army was too weak to
move forward and leave garrisons behind. The conse-
quence of this condition of things was an inconvenient
derangement in the transmission of funds. Specie could
only be carried safely with the large trains ; while drafts
on the government treasuries in the towns of the United
States were at a discount in Mexico. Such was the state
of the military chest, when it was determined to march
from Puebla to Mexico.
On the 5th of August a council of war was held, at
which the heads of the different divisions and brigades
were present ; among whom were Major-Generals Worth,
Quitman, and Pillow, with Brigadiers Twiggs, Shields,
and Cudwallader. General Pierce did not arrive till next
day. The general-in-chief (Scott) then laid down dis-
tinctly the plan of operations, the routes, and the mode,
by which he proposed to reach, attack, and capture
the city of Mexico and its defences. Subsequent events
proved how#ably and clearly these dispositions were
made.
15
226
COUNCIL OF WAR.
We have said that Scott left Puebia with 10,738 men/
and that 3,261 were left in garrison and in hospitals. Of
the last, the largest part were in the hospital, where were
at one time no lass than nineteen hundred sick ! Of these,
seven hundred found their graves at Puebia. Leaving
this large body of sick with a very moderate garrison,
under Col. Childs, the army commenced its march for the
valley of Mexico on the 7th of August.
The army, under the directions of the general^in-chief,
was arranged in four divisions, with a cavalry brigade.
The divisions comprehended a large number of regiments,
but their numbers were reduced one-half. Some of them
were the mere skeletons of what they should be, under
the regular organization.
The divisions were very nearly as follows :
/>! 1 -D • J ( Ist Drairoons, Capt. Kearney,
Cavalnr Bngade,^ 2j X^ M^or Sumner;
Col. Harney. ^3^ ^ Capt McReynolds,
Parts.
Ist Division,
Gen. Worth.
2d Division,
Gen. Twiggs.
1st Brigade,
Col. Garland.
2d Brigade,
Col. C&rke.
Ist Brigade,
Gen. Smith.
2d Brigade,
Col. iGley.
{2d Regiment Artillery.
8d do. do.
4th do. Infantry.
Duncan's Field Battery.
C 6th Infantry.
< 6th do.
( 8th do.
(Rifle Regiment.
Ist Artillery.
3d Infantrv.
Taylor's Battery.
C 4th Artilleiy.
< 1st Infantry.
(7th do.*
> Scott's OflScial Report, Na 34.
DIVIBIONS FOR. THB MARCH
237
8d Division,
Gen. Pillow.
Ist Brigade,
Gen. Cadwallader.
3d Bri^e,
Gen. Pierce.
Voldgeim.
nth Infantry.
14th do.
Othln&ntiy.
12th da
16th do.
4th Division,
Gen. Quitman.
1st Brigade, ( S. Carolina Volunteers.
Gen. Shields., . , ) Ji; York Volunteers.
nA Timitm^Atk J' fid Penn. do.
«a ungaae. x Detachment of U. S. Mar.
This organization apparently gives twenty regiments,
and parts of five others. Had these regiments been full,
up to their legal number, they would hate contained
twenty thousand men, a regiment, when completely or-
ganized, having a thousand. The whole army, however,
contained but little more than half that number. The
regiments, therefore, averaged but five hundred, and, in
fact, some of them had but three hundred.
In order that the different corps should not be thrown
together, and that the trqops might move easily, the divis-
ions took up their line of march on different days, but in
such a manner that they might reinforce each other at
four hours' notice. As it was known that there was no
large Mexican army immediately in front, no evil could
arise from this mode of march.
Accordingly on the Tth the second division, under Gen-
eral Twiggs, commenced its. march, preceded by the
brigade of cavalry under Harney. On the 8th, Quitman's
division of Tolunteers moved ; on the 9th the first division,
under Worth; on the 10th the third division, under Pil-
low.^ General Scott, the commander, joined and contin*
ued vrith the leading division.
>Soottfs (MBcM Report, ^ow 81, Aagart 19Ui, 1847.
P
ROUTE or THS TROOPS.
The army was now under full way, marching on to
that singular capital of that singular nation, whose ancient
and whose modem civilization has made a phenomenon in
the history of society. The fragments of mutation and
revolution lay scattered in its path — all was new and
strange ; yet, unmoved by these associatiuns, and undi-
verted by these novelties, it marched steadily on to fulf 1
what was apparently the decree of destiny.
The road on which the troops marched was the ^feal
stage-travelled route from Vera Cruz to Mexico, thiough
Puebla. The route travelled by Cortez, in his conquest,
after diverging to the right a little south of Perote, here
crossed the modern road and passed to the left through
Cholula, and round the base of Popocatapetl, and finally
rejoined the present road, near Lake Chalco. Cortez, no
doubt, pursued the common way at that time, especially
as Cholula was then a magnificent city. The modern
road has been made to suit the modern relations of society
and the new growth of towns. Nearly at right angles to
the road from Vera Cruz, and west of the range of the
Cordilleras, lies the road from Mexico to Acapulco on the
Pacific. Near the city of Mexico, are the lakes of Chalco
and Xachimilco. On this road to Acapulco is the village
of San Augustine, at which the American army ultimately
arrived, previous to the battles of Mexico.
On the morning of the 7th, Twiggs' division passed
out of Puebla, and took its way through a beautiful,
rolling country, where gardens supplied the city with
fruits and vegetables. The road was ascending, and
crossed, before it entered the city of Mexico, the Anahuac
range of the Cordilleras, the most magnificent portion of
that chain of mountains which extends from Cape Horn
NATURAL 8CENERT. 220
to the Arties — and from whose sky-crested summits the
eye of fancy might extend its uninterrupted vision from
the Atlantic to the Pacific, and call up, in bright and
long array, the nations, the arts, and the triumphs of
victorious science, to be spread over all this continent, in
the ages of the deep and distant future ! Many miles to
the left arose the snow-topped Popocatapetl, whose ven-
erable summit was eighteen thousand feet in the air ;
three thousand feet above the point where ice and snow
dwell in perpetual congelation ! A little further, arose,
the twin summit of Iztac-cithuatl, whose icy top looks
over the earth in the same cold and isolated glory.
Thirty miles from the road, as these were, yet in the
clear atmosphere of this elevated plain they seemed
near by, and their snows chilled the air. Thus amidst
the ruins of Cholula and Tlascala, on either side, and in
full view of these volcanic monuments to the grandeur
of nature, the army marched on. The road gradually
ascended through mountain scenery, which seemed to
befit rather the north of New England then the region
of the tropics. Thick woods would now and then cover
the hills, while here and there little lakes were inter-
spersed in deep valleys. The thirst of the soldier was
relieved by the coldness of their waters, and his weari-
ness was almost forgotten in the beauty and sublimity of
surrounding nature. At length, on the third day, they
reached the pass of Rio Frio. They left Puebla, seven
thousand two hundred feet above the ocean, and were
now ten thousand one hundred and twenty ; having
gradually ascended three thousand feet in forty-eight
miles, and arrived in the midst of the Anahuac range of
the Cordilleras, at a point forty-five miles distant from
u
•80 A&MT RSACHSS RIO FRia
the city of Mexico.^ Rio Frio, says an officer, is *' a
little stream pouring down from the Snow mountains, of
icy coldness and crystal purity .'^ The mountains from
which it runs are composed of porphyritic rocks, and
their highest summits, like that of Popocatapetl, are
ancient Tolcanoes.
At this point the army had anticipated resistance, and
the position was favorable to defence. Being in the
midst of the mountains, they here closed down on both
tides of the road, so as completely to overhang and en-
filade it. Signs of preparation were, indeed, found in
temporary parapets, and timber felled. The intention,
however, of defending this point had been abandoned.
It was supposed that General Valencia, who commanded
the division of the north, was stationed here. If so, he
had retreated towards the capital.
A march of a few miles further, and the army passed
over the highest crest of the mountains ; and one of the
most splendid scenes of the world opened upon the eyes
of the weary soldiers.
It is thus described by an officer of the Rifles.'
"When all were pretty neariy worn out, a sudden
turn in the road brought to our view a sight which none
can ever forget. The whole vast plain of Mexico was
before us. The coldness of the air, which was mosi
sensibly felt at this great height — our &tigue and danger,
were foigotten, and our eyes were the only sen^e that
thought of enjoyment. Mexico, with its lofty steeples
' Sce^T^ Map 9i the Rowb &«m Term Cr« to Mesca
* Lrttor to dM X«« Y«fk C
\
TIBW or MEXICO. 231
and its checkered domes — its bright reality, and its former
fame — its modem splendor, and its ancient magnificence,
was before us ; while around on every side its thousand
lakes seemed like silver stars on a velvet mantle."
With this description we may compare another by an
English officer, who seems to have been equally en-
raptured with the same view. '' From an eminence,
(says Captain Lyon,) we came suddenly in sight of the
great valley of Mexico, with its beautiful city appearing
in the centre/ surrounded by diverging shady paseos,
bright fields, and picturesque haciendas. The great
lake Tezcuco lay immediately beyond it, shaded by a
low floating cloud of exhalations from its surface, which
hid from our view the bases of the volcanoes of Popoca-
tapetl and Iztac-cithuatl — while their snowy summits,
brightly glowing beneath the direct rays of the sun,
which but partially illumined the plains, gave a delight-
fully novel appearance to the whole scene before me.
I was, however, at this distance, disappointed as to the
size of Mexico; but its livety whiteness and freedom
from smoke — the magnitude of the churches, and the
extreme regularity of its structure, gave it an ap-
pearance which can never be seen in a European city,
and declare it unique — ^perhaps unequalled in its kind."^
Thus suddenly did the army burst upon this extra-
ordinary view->-a view as remarkable for its historical
associations, as for the grandeur of its natural elements, —
a scene too, which must forever connect this army with
' Captain Lyon*! Jounial of a Reaideiice and Tour in the Republic of
Mexico
232 DESCRIPTION or THE TALLET.
the memory of the past, and the developments of the
future.
There must have been some, also, in that martial array,
who turned their .thoughts from the scenes of war, to
contemplate here some of the most singular features of
the natural world. The valley of Mexico is one of the
most extraordinary regions of the earth. It is a basin
enclosed by a wall of porphyritic mountains. Its length,
north .and south, is about sixty miles, and its breadth
(east and west) about forty miles.^ It is really formed
by a separation (south of the city of Mexico) of the
great chain of the Cordilleras into two chains — one
bending east and the other west, which again unite
north of the city. The result of this conformation is to
leave a basin, surrounded by the walls of the mountain.
In this basin, " all the water furnished by the sur-
rounding Cordilleras is collected. No stream issues
from it excepting the brook of Tequisquiac, which joins
the Rio de Tula. The lakes rise by stages, in pro-
portion to their distance from its centre, or in other
words, from the site of the capital. Next to the lake of
Tezcuco, Mexico is the least elevated point of the val-
ley ; the Plaza Mayor, or Great Square, being only one
foot and x)ne inch higher than the mean level of this
lake, which is eleven and three-fourths feet lower than
that of San Christobal. Zumpongo, which is the most
northern, is 29 ^V A inches higher than the surface of
Tezcuco ; while that of Chalco, at the southern ex-
tremity, is only 3tVVt feet more elevated then the Great
Square of Mexico."^
' See Stealey't Maps of the Roads from Vera Cruz to Mexica
' Hamboldt't New Spain.
M
SITUATION or THE CITT. 233
In consequence of this peculiarity, the city has, for a
long series of ages, been exposed to inundations. Five
immense floods have occurred since the Spanish inva-
sion. Immense works have been eonstructed at dif-
ferent times to avoid this danger. One of these is the
great cut, planned by Enrico Martinez, which connects
the Rio de Suautitlon with the Rio Tula, and thus
carries off the lake of Zumpongo.^ Around the same
lake are stone dikes. In the south, dikes and sluices
have been formed round Lakes Chalco and Xochimilco,
by which they are prevented from overflowing. By
means like these, the city of Mexico is prevented from *
inundation, and is no longer, as it seems to have been
in the time of Cortez, an island in a lake. The charac-
ter of the country remains unchanged — and it is yet a
marshy valley, in a basin of the Cordilleras, spotted with
lakes and filled with volcanic remains. On some of
the causeways, there is still a continuous body of water
for miles from the city — while on others, the ground is
marshy, but sometimes cultivated.
On the 10th, the division of Twiggs encamped at the
base of the mountain,' and at this, the enemy's scouts
began to be seen on all sides. On the 11th, this di-
vision reached Ayotla, only fifteen miles by the National
Road from Mexico, and waited for the other divisions to
come up.
At this point, a survey of the valley of Mexico showed
* This wai Uioiight, by Hamboldt, to be one of Uie most gigantic
hydraulic operationfl executed by man. Its length is 67,537 feet, the
greatest depth 197, and its greatest breadth 361.
* Letter to Vie New York Courier.
u2
284 TIBW or THB COUNTRT.
the lake of Tezcuco directly in front of the road ; and
at the lower end, and about half way to Mexico, (seven
miles,) on the left of the road, is El Penon, a fortified
mountain. Directly west of that, at the upper end oi
Lake Xochimilco, and about five miles soutli of Mexico,
is Mexicalcingo, another fortified point. Directly south
and west of Ayotla, lies the lake of Chalco, and the lake
of Xochimilco. Entirely west of these again, and run-
ning from the city of Mexico, nearly at right^ angles with
the National Road, lies the road to Acapulco, leading west
from Mexico to the Pacific. On this last road lies San
Augustine, the general depot of the army in its sub-
sequent operations. Between San Augustine and the
city of Mexico, and on or near the Acapulco road, lie in
succession, San Antonia, Contreras, and Chunibusco,
points where successive engagements took place. Con-
treras is about four miles nearly northwest of San Au-
gustine, on a road leading through San Angel to the
Tacubaya causeway. Churubusco is on the Aca-
pulco road, near a canal, at the crossing of which was
a tete du ponty (bridge-head.)
A rapid coup (Tail (birds-eye view) of the topography
of the valley, and the position of the army on the 13th of
August, will show Twiggs's division at Ayotla, east of
Lake Chalco; Worth's division near the village of
Chalco, at the south end of the lake, and the divisions
of Pillow and Quitman intermediate. In front, the great
lake of^ Tezcuco, and on the left. Lake Chalco. The
city of Mexico lay on the side of Lake Tezcuco, and
fifteen miles, by the road from Ayotla, approached
through the lakes and marshes by great causeways.
An attentive examination shows, that on the south and
THB COUNTRY KZAMIKBD. 236 ^ i
west, there are three great roads which respectively enter
Mexico by causeways. The first, is the Vera Cruz or
National Road, on which the army now was, and which
passed by £1 Penon, immediately in front, and for miles
on a narrow causeway, built on the shoals of the lake.
The second was the Acapuico road, which lay directly
across Lake Chalco, from where the army now was, and
proceeded through San Augustine and San Antonia, by a
causeway to the city. The third was the Toluca road,
passing into Mexico by the Tacubaya causeway, still
further to the west.
The problem now presented to the commander-in-
chief was, by which of these roads shall the army at-
tempt its passage into the city ? The solution of this
question required a close reconnaissance, and an accurate
survey, if possible, of the position and defences of the
enemy.
On the 12th of August, the Rifle regiment, with three
companies of cavalry, were pushed forward to recon-
noitre El Penan.^ This work was successfully per-
formed, and the work pronounced impracticable, without
immense loss, which the commander of the army thought
unnecessary to the object. The reconnoitring party
(rifles and dragoons) continued their search to the left, in
order to find a way of easier approach to the city. At
about five miles from Mexico, they were arrested by
coming suddenly upon five strong batteries commanding
the road. This was the post of Mexicalcingo, before
described, at the head of Lake Xochimilco. The party
(composed of about four hundred men) soon counter-
* Letter of an offioflr to the Now Yoik Courier.
286 EL PENON XXAMINED.
marched, and found El Penon, with its bristHng batteries,
immediately between them and the camp of General
Twiggs. For some unknown reason, they were not at-
tacked ; and after a rapid march, arrived in camp about
midnight. General Scott pronounced tills ** the boldest
reconnaissance of the war."
El Penon, which had been thus reconnoitred, is a
rocky hill, which ^* completely enfilades and commands
the National Road, and had been fortified and repaired
with the greatest care by Santa Anna. One side was
inaccessible by nature, the rest had been made so by
art. Batteries, in all mounting fifty-one guns of dif-
ferent calibres, had been placed on its sides, and a deep
ditch, twenty-four feet wide and ten feet deep, had
been cut, connecting the parts already surrounded by
marshes."^ From the Penon to the city, was a cause-
way, surrounded by water. This position could not
be turned, and therefore must be carried by assault.
Against this, General Scott decided on grounds of hu-
manity.
In his report of the 19th of August, 1847, he thus
writes:
" This mound, close to the National Road, commands
the principal approach to the city from the east. No
doubt it might have been carried, but at a great and dis-
proportionate loss, and I was anxious to spare the lives of
this gallant army for a general battle, which I knew we
had to win before capturing the city, or obtaining the
great object of the campaign — a just and honorable
peace."
' Letter to the New Yofk Conner.
\^
< ARMY TURNS THB PENON. 237
Of the pass, by Mexicalcingo, the general writes, and
tlius discloses the plan which was ultimately adopted.
" It might have been easy (masking the Penon) to
force the passage ; but^ on the other side of the bridge
we should have found ourselves, four miles from this
road, on a narrow causeway, flanked to the right and left
by water,' or boggy grounds. These diflSculties closely
viewed, threw me back upon the project long entertained,
of turning the strong eastern defences of the city, by
passing around south of Lakes Chalco.and Xochimiico, at
the foot of the hills and mountains, so as to reach San
Augustine, and hence to manoBuvre on hard, though much
broken ground, to the south and southwest of the capital,
which had been more or less under our view since the
10th inst."*
£1 Penon, being on the common and only good road
from Puebla to Mexico, and being likewise an almost
impregnable position, General Santa Anna had judged
correctly and wisely in placing there his principal fortifi-
cation. The fortress of Mexicalcingo, being likewise a
strong one, and, if taken, leaving the American army on
a narrow causeway, easily defensible, the Mexican gen-
eral had apparently provided for every possible passage
between the Lake Chalco and the Lake Tezcuco. This
was the only way in which there was a regular and toler-
able road from Puebla to Mexico. On this the American
army had advanced, and the vanguard had actually
reached Ayotla, several miles in front of the south end
of Chalco. The measures of the Mexican general were.
^General Sootfs CMBcmI Report, No. 31, dated August 19th.
238 00B8 ROUND CHALCO.
therefore, judiciously taken, and at this time promised, if
any defence could avail, to be successful.
The real question in military science at this time was,
could the Lake Chalco be turned ? If it could, did the
new route present a better or safer way ? The reconnais-
sances made, and the information of scouts, determined
the fact that a passage existed round the south end of
Lake Chalco which might be made practicable, and by
which the army would be brought on to the Acapulco
road, and advance to the city on a route less defended,
and affording greater advantages in fighting. This route,
if practicable, Scott had contemplated taking, and now at
once put the army in motion for that purpose.
The order of march was reversed^ and Worth's di-
vision, which was in the rear at Chalco, was now in
advance, marching round the south end of Lake Chalco,
and cutting their way to San Augustine. On the 15th
the several divisions took up their Une of march, and
Worth's corps proceeded steadily on to the fortified posi-
tion of San Antonia. " The road lay along the base of a
high range of mountains, at times crossing rocky spurs of
the mountains, or along the margin of the lake, on very
narrow causeways very much cut up. The hills on the
left were often precipitous, and a few sharp-shooters might
have annoyed us exceedingly by their fire, and a few en-
terprising men might have blocked up the road completely
by rolling down rocks, and yet they attempted it but once ;
a few shot soon dislodged them, and two or three hours'
work cleared the roaci."^
On the 17th the head of General Worth's division
* LaCtar firom an offioflr, poblUMd m tbe WMhingtoo Union.
V
•, ^
WORTH RBACHK8 SAN AUGUSTINE. 239
reached San Augustine, and in a few hours after the other
divisions were within striking distance. The march
round the lake to San Augustine was twenty-seven miles,
by a route deemed by the Mexicans impracticable ; and
on the 18th all the several corps were in position in the
neighborhood of that post.^
Twiggs's division left Ayotla on the 16th with the train,
the brigade of General Smith forming the rearguard. As
the train was passing the little village of Buena Vista a
Mexican division appeared in sight, attempting to cross
the road and cut the train off. Here a skirmish ensued,
which is thus described by an officer :
" On our left were large fields of half-grown barley,
through which was seen advancing, in splendid order, the
enemy's column. It was the most splendid sight I had
ever seen. The yellow cloaks, red caps and jackets of
the lancers, and the bright blue and white uniforms of the
infantry, were most beautifully contrasted with the green
of the barley-field. Our line of battle was soon formed,
and we deployed through the grain to turn their left and
cut them off from the mountains. A few shots, however,
from the battery, soon showed them that they were ob-
served, and countermarching in haste, they left their dead
on the field. Thus ended our fight at Buena Vista. That
night we stayed at Chalco."*
The train continued to move on, by roads over which
it was almost impossible to drag the wagons. On the
18th it arrived in sight of the main army, which had now
taken possession of San Augustine.
> SooCt'i Official Report, dated the 19th.
' Letter ttoax an officer, m the New York CoarieEi
240
ARMY IN POSITION.
The army was now concentrated, the different divisions
in sight of one another, and the arrangements made for
final operations. On the 13th it was on the Puebla road
on the east side of Lake Chalco, advancing on EI Penon.
On the 18th it was on the Acapuico road, near San Au-
gustine, nine miles from the city of Mexico. The change
was made in good order, and the ground to operate on
was far better, and the defences in front less. The city
of the Spanish- Aztecs was now within the grasp of the
arms of the United States, predestined, in the convictions
of the people, to be invincible wherever they should be
carried. A conviction like this, existing in ages past,
alike in the minds of Roman, Mohammedan, and Puritan,
often makes the destiny which it affirms and courts.
Asserted in the cause of liberty and justice, it would
subdue a world to the civilization of Christianity. In
any other cause, its predestined glory may fade before a
darker fate.
\
UNKs or OEnNCE. 241
CHAPTER XII.
Meii«;a]i line of Defence* — Pontion of the American and Mexican Ar-
miee. — Action of the I9th. — Position in the Hamlet of Contreras. — Po-
sition of General Scott — Arrangements for the Dattle. — Distribution of
the American and Mexican Forces. — Battle of Contreras. — Rout of the
Mexicans. — Surrender of Mexican Generals. — Recapture of the Buena
Vista Guns. — Scott's Arrangements. — Evacuation of San Antonia. —
Storm of the T^to du Pont — Battle of Chnmbufica — Defeat of the
Mexicans^ — Lcms. — ^Tmce.
The Mexican plan of defence for the city of Mexico
seeras to have contemplated two lines of defence — an ex-
terior and intenor one. The exterior was composed of a
line of forts and fortified eminences. The strongest was
El Penon, on the National Road, completely command-
ing it, near the edge of Lake Tezcuco. This fortress, as
we have already stated, was pronounced impracticable
without immense loss. It contained fifty-one guns, dis-
posed in several different batteries, with infantry breast-
works, and the whole surrounded by a deep ditch con-
necting the marshes and waters about it. The next fort
of this class was at Mexicalcingo, at the upper end of
Lake Xochimilco, and commanding a narrow causeway to
the city. This, also, was defended with batteries and
infantry breastworks. The next position was the Bridge
OF Churubusco, a ieie du pont at the crossing of a canal,
armed also with cannon, on the Acapulco road. The
next, but to the west, and front of this, was the Hill of
CoMTRERAS, thoroughly armed with battenes and breast-
▼ 16
DESCRIPTION OF THE PBFXNCE8. 243
/
works. In the route, and still nearer to the city, was the
Hill or Chapultepec, on which was the Military Col-
lege. This was at the point where the mountains ap-
proached the city. It was a strong position and well
armed.^ It is plain, from an examination of the map, that
these positions really commanded all the practicable passes
to the city on the whole semicircle, extending round from
Lake Teaxuco in the east to where the mountains come
near the city on the west. These fortifications were armed
with near one hundred pieces of cannon, while the ground
between them was either marshy, or covered with volcanic
remains, sharp and abrupt, rendering it almost impassable
even for footmen. Behind this line of exterior defences
General Valencia, with 6,000 of the best troops of the
Mexican army, was to manoeuvre, and reinforce any point
which might be exposed to attack.
The interior line seems to have been only the forts,
and canals or ditches of the city itself. These, however,
were by no means weak. The city was approached only
by causeways. Canals and ditches surrounded it in va-
rious directions, and at the gateways were garitas^ or
small forts, constructed at the angles of the streets or en-
trances of the causeways, eight in number.' These de-
fences of the city were also mounted with a large number
of cannon. This interior line, however, was evidently
weaker than the exterior one. These various defences
were well calculated to protect the city against any thing
less than a large army and protracted siege, had the energy
' This itatenMDt oomfpondi in rabfUiioe with one made by Captain
Lee of the engineen.
* See ScoCf ■ Ofioid Bepoit
244 POSITION or thb a&mt.
of the men, or the abiUty of their officers, corresponded
with the natural strength of the positions. This, however,
was not the case. Whether it be a superior strength, in-
nate in the natural constitutions of the inhabitants of the
northern temperate zone, or whether it be what is more
than equivalent to strength, a higher and better education,
it is certain that the arms of England and the United
States have exhibited a great superiority over those of
more southern nations — a superiority, whose final result
on the dominion and civilization of the world is yet to be
made known by the events of futurity.
On the 18th of August, the position of the armies, at
night, was in the order following, viz. : Worth's division
had, during the day, advanced from San Augustine in the
direction of San Antonia, whose batteries were brought
to bear on his troops, and the first shot killed Captain
Thornton, a brave but unfortunate officer of the 2d dra
goons.* The cavalry had been thrown in front to recon-
noitre. The village proved to be strongly fortified, and
a bold reconnaissance made by Captain Mason of the en-
gineers, accompanied by Lieutenants Stevens and Tower,
determined that this point could only be approached by
the front, over a narrow causeway of great length, flanked
with wet ditches of great depth.' Worth was ordered not
to attack, but to threaten and mask the place. On the
left of the road here, extending west, was an immense
field of volcanic rocks and lava, called pedregal, and on
the east it was wet and boggy.' This pedregal was
> Scott't Official Report
' Official Report
* Letter of an officer in Uie Wanhingtop Unmu
\
FACE or THB COUlTrRT. 245
thrown up in sharp rocks and broken pieces, in such a
manner, that the Mexican officers supposed it to be im-
passable. It extended to the mountains, five miles to the
left. That night Worth made the headquarters of his
division at a hacienda on the road, near Antonia, and
within reach of the enemy's guns.
On the same night the division of Twiggs slept in a
little village, in sight of Worth's corps.^ The divisions
of Pillow and Quitman were near.
On the same evening (the 18th) General Valencia,
whose division had previously been held liable to march
to any point, and whose troops were called *' the flower"
of the Mexican army, occupied the fortified intrenchments
at the heights of Contreras, about five miles to the north-
west of San Augustine.' At the same time (evening of
the 18th) General Rincon took command at Churubusco,
whose fortifications were not then completed, but to finish
which he immediately addressed himself.^ The garrison
of that post appears to have been composed, according to
the officid report, of the battalions of national guards,
called Independencia and Bravo, which were subsequent^
ly reinforced (19th and 20th) by different batteries of ar-
tillery.
At San Antonia was posted another Mexican division,
reinforced on the morning of the 19th, by the battalions
of Hidalgo and Victoria. In the neighborhood of Con-
treras and San Angel were other divisions of the enemy
under Santa Anna.
* Letter in the New York Courier and finqoirer.
■ Official Report of General Sala&
* Official Report of General Rincon.
v2
246 SCOTT't PLAN or BATTI.B.
This, then, was the situation of the two armies on the
night of the I8th August. General Scott's headquarters
were at San Augustine. The pass of San Antonia, in
front, being strong and on a narrow causeway, the plan of
attack adopted seems to have been this — to turn Antonia
by taking the fort at Contreras, and thus be able to march
round San Antonia ; or rather, to gain Coyhoacan on the
San Angel, in the rear of San Antonia, and which was
also but one mile from Churubusco. To do this, how-
ever, required that a new road should be cut for artillery
from San Augustine to Contreras, and that, when there,
that position, strongly defended by artillery, should be
stormed and taken. This was the plan now devised by
the American general, and to be immediately executed by
the army.
On the morning of the 19th, all was animation in both
armies. General Valencia was strongly posted at Con-
treras ; Rincon was busy increasing the fortifications of
Churubusco ; Santa Anna was reinforcing both Antonia
and Contreras, with bodies of troops drawn from the city ;
and General Scott, having made a new reconnaissance to
the left by Captain Lee, with Lieutenants Beauregard
and Tower,* now detached Pillow's division on the con-
templated route to make a practicable road for heavy ar-
tiUery."
Captain Lee of the engineers, having discovered a
corps of observation in the direction taken by Pillow's
division, Twiggs was advanced in front to cover the party
cutting the road.' This last division had now arrived at
> Scott't Official Report, (No. 31,) 19th Angiut, 1847.
■ Offidal Report. * Uam.
\
POBITIOM OF C0NTRBRA8. 247
the village of San Juan, and were prepared for the severe
kbor of the next two days. The men were ordered to
put their blankets on their shoulders, their knapsacks in
their wagons, and two days' bread and beef in their haver-
sacks. At one p. M., they left San Juan, and proceeded
forward, dragging with them Magruder's battery and the
mountain howitzers.^ At two p. m.. General Smith's
brigade had arrived at the crest of a hill, from which Var
lencia, in his intrenchments, was plainly visible, and in
the distance reinforcements marching to his assistance.
These intrenchments of Valencia, at the hill of Contre-
ras, had twenty-two pieces of artillery (mostly heavy)
mounted in a battery commanding the difficult, broken,
rocky ground, on which the American troops had to man-
(Buvre. With this position the city of Mexico was con-
nected, by an excellent road, beyond the volcanic field, and
by which it received, from time to time, great bodies of
cavalry.*
At four p. M., General Scott took position on one of the
eminences in front of Contreras, and found the brigades
of P. F. Smith and Riley, (Twiggs' division,) supported
by those of Pierce and Cadwallader, (Pillow's division,)
picking their way over the broken ground in the enemy's
front, and extending themselves towards the road which
leads to the city. With great difficulty Captain Magru-
der's battery of twelve and six pounders, and Lieut. Calen-
der's battery of mountain howitaers and rockets, had been
advanced to within range of the intrenchments.^ " The
' liettor of an officer in the New Yotk Cornier
* Scott*! Official Report.
'Qffiotal Eapoit
248 MAlKBUVmiNO OF THB ARMIBS.
ground/' says an officer, " was the worst possible for ar-
tillery ; covered with rocks, large and small, prickly-pear
and cactus ; intersected by ditches filled with water, and
lined with maguey plant, itself imperriable to cavalry ;
and with patches of com, which concealed the enemy's
skirmishers while it impeded our passage. The artil-
lery advanced but slowly, under a most murderous
fire of grape, canister, and round shot, until it got into
position."*
Our artillerymen could get but three pieces in battery,
while the enemy had twentj/^iwo, which, being mostly
heavy, rendered our fire nugatory. "For two hours,"
says the same officer, " our troops stood the storm of iron
and lead which hailed upon them, unmoved. At every
discharge they laid flat down to avoid the storm, and then
sprung up to serve the guns. At the end of that time,
two of the guns were dismounted, and we (the rifles)
badly hurt ; thirteen of the horses were killed and dis-
abled, and fifteen of the cannoniers killed and wounded.
The troops were then recalled."
In the mean time the Mexican lancers had been repeat-
edly repulsed. In another part of the field Riley's brig^e
sustained the enemy's fire, and were engaged in skirmish-
ing. This action lasted for about three hours, during
which time our troops maintained themselves under a
heavy and severe fire, and successfully resisted the
charges of large columns bf cavalry.
The day of the 19th, however, closed without any de-
cisive results. The infantry, unsustained by either cav-
Letter of ui officer io the New T«k Coorier
C0BrTRBRA8 OCCUPIED. 249
airy or artillery, could not charge in column without being
mowed down by the Mexican batteries, nor in line, with-
out being successfully assailed by the Mexican cavalry.^
To cut off the junction of further reinforcements from the
capital (which till now arrived at will) the general-in-
chief determined to occupy the hamlet and church of
Contreras, on the road leading from the capital to Va-
lencia's camp. Cadwallader's brigade, already advanced
in that direction, had taken position, and needed assist-
ance. The 14th regiment of infantry. Colonel Morgan,
was then ordered by Scott to occupy the hamlet, and a
few minutes later they were followed by the New York
and South Carolina volunteers, composing the brigade of
General Shields. These troops made their way through
a dense forest to the left of the road at Contreras, (east
side,) and in the night took post in the hamlet on the road.
In the mean time the brigades of Smith and Riley had
advanced still further, and taken post ih rear and flank of
the enemy's post at Contreras.
It was determinedfby Scott to make a diversion in the
morning, or earlier, if practicable, in front of Fort Con-
treras, while the brigades of Smith and Riley should at-
tack, and Shields should cut off the advance of reinforce-
ments, or the retreat of the defeated through the hamlet
on the road. This purpose was carried out.
General Persifer F. Smith of Twiggs' division was first
on the ground, and had the merit of making the imme-
diate dispositions for the battle of the following morning.
They were made with skill and judgment, drawing from
* Seotfi Official R«poit
250 POSITION OF C0NTRSRA8.
the commander-in-chief the warmest praise, and from the
army uniyersal admiration. The cloife of the 19th was,
to the troops immediately engaged, neither pleasant nor
inspiring. They closed a severe action without decisive
results. The rifle regiment, with the 1st artillery and 3d
infantry, (engaged in front with the enemy,) marched to
their new positions through chapporal and cactus, tired,
hungry, and sorrowful.' In the evening they marched
into the little hamlet, and there spent the night, with the
brigade of Riley in the same road. Shields' brigade was
in an orchard near by, and Cadwallader nearer the enemy.
The night was cold, wet, and dreary. An officer of tiie
rifles thus describes it .'
" As we were within reach of their batteries, which
could enfilade the road in which we lay, we built a stone
breastwork at either end to conceal ourselves from their
view and grape. There we were, completely surrounded
by the enemy, cut ofi" from our communications, ignorant
of the ground, without artillery, weary, dispirited, and de-
jected — we were a disheartened set. With Santa Anna
and Salas' promise of ' no quarter,' a force of four to one
against us, and one half defeated already, no succor from
Puebla and no news from Scott,^ all seemed dark. Sud-
denly the words came whispered along, ' We storm at
midnight P Now we were ourselves again.
" But what a horrible night 1 There we lay — too tired
to eat, too wet to sleep — ^in the middle of that muddy
' Letter fifom an officer in the New York Conner.
' From the same.
' Scott wa«, till after dark, in a pomtion opposite the enemy's centre.
He then retired to San Augustine and wrote the despatch of the day.
POSITION OF CONTRBRAS. 251
road, officers add men side by side, with a heavy rain
pooriog down upon us — the officers without blankets or
overcoats, (they had lost them in coming across,) and the
men worn out with fettigue. About midnight, the rain
was so heavy that the streams in the road flooded us ;
and there we stood, crowded together, drenched and be-
numbed, waiting till daylight.** ^
The darkness and heavy rain impeded the troops, and
rendered the transmission of orders' so difficult, that the
attack on the enemy which had been planned for the dawn
of day did not commence till a later hour. About four
o'clock the troops of Riley and Smith, which had occu-
pied the hamlet and road during the night, defiled into
their position in rear of the enemy, by a ravine covered
by orchards and corn-fields. The nature of the ground
facilitated this operation. The batteries and intrenched
camp of Valencia were on the side of a hill, towards the
east or southeast, so as to command the road, it being the
great object to defend the roads which led to the city.
The volcanic and rocky formation here made several little
eminences, with ravines between. In this instance there
were other eminences in the rear still higher. The brigade
of Riley passed through an orchard into the ravine behind
Valencia, so as to be out of sight of Valencia's corps^ and
yet occupy a position near to him, in his rear. The bri-
gade of Smith followed. That of Cadwallader had already
taken position in rear of these, as a support, while Shields'
was held in reserve — ^taking the place of Smith's men, in
' Soott had Bent ■evenofficenoQt for iBfoRnati<m that evening, of which
not one got Uiroogfa. Captain Lee, alone, with a menage from Shieldib
able to gel tfaraogh.
252 POSITION OF CONTRKRAS.
the Tillage of Contreras, and andertaku4; to hold that
against the approach of the Mexican main army from the
city,^ or, in case Valencia was defeated, to cut off his re-
treat to the city. He was accompanied also by the 13th
regiment under Colonel Morgan. In the mean time, a
diversion (at General Smithes request) had been intended,
by the advance in front of one of Worth's brigades and
one of Quitman's, leaving San Augustine (the general
depot) to be garrisoned by Harney's dragoons. This
movement, however, occurred too late to affect the en-
gagement.'
These movements were made, and the action ready to
begin, at about six a. m. It appears that the march of
the American troops in the night, and preparatory to the
engagement, was altogether unknown to the Mexicans,
whose attention was chiefly directed to an attack in front.
The action of the afternoon of the 19th, in which the
Americans had made no impression, inspired them with
an idea that they might be victorious ; and as the evening
had come on leaving the Americans in front, they had the
belief that the attack would be in front or along the line
of the road. Here we may remark, that the idea of rapid
night movements, with a view to turn positions or make
surprises by skill and energy, seems not to be at all fa-
miliar to the Mexican generals. Had it been, why did
they not discover, and endeavor to prevent the execution
and use of the npw road made round the heights of Cerro
Gordo ? Why did they not throw their troops into, and
defend the narrow pass, between mountain and water,
' 19ee Officift] Report * Soe Scott'i Offieud Report
POSITION OF THE ARMIES. 268
round the sonth end of Lake Chaico ? And why, now,
with twenty thousand men in sight, did they not watch
and defend the space between Valencia's batteries, and
the road and hamlet occupied on the night of the 19th by
the brigades of Riley and Smith ? They did not, and
lost the battle (stratagetically considered) on that account.
Let us now review the exact position of the two armies
on the morning of the 20th — and which, all other things
being equal, decided their fate — as to the position of Con-
treras. First, we observe, that the road leading by the
heights of Contreras, goes to Mexico through San Angel.
At the last place a road branches off, rather southeast, by
Coyhoacan, to the San Antonia road at Churubusco. At
the last place, and very near the junction of the roads, the
San Antonia road crosses a little stream, or canal, called,
Churubusco River. At this point, covering the crossing,
is a regular fortiiication, called T6te du Pont, or Bridge-
head. This is connected with a church or convent, in
the hamk t of Churubusco, by defences. Churubusco is
approached, then, on the south and west, by two roads
only; one from San Angel, through Coyhoacan; the
other from San Antonia. Now the reader will mark that
the Mexican positions were these : 1st. Valencia, with the
division of the north, composed of about six thousand
men, occupied the batteries and hill-side on the height of
Contreras. This was a battery mounted with heavy
pieces. The object of this defence was to command the'
road, which was a good one, from here to Mexico. 2d,
At about two miles from this work, and parallel with the
same road, lay the main body of the Mexican army, un-
der Santa Anna, supposed to be about twelve thousand
men. A reference to the map of the ground will show
w
254 POSITION OF THB ARMU8
that this was a position well adapted to reinforce either
Contreras upon one road, or Churubusco on the other.
Sd. General Rincon, with the regiments of Bravo and
Independencia, occupied the church and lite du pont^
at Churubusco.' 4kth. San Antonia, which had first ar-
rested th^ inarch of Worth's division in this direction, was
Ukewise garrisoned and fortified. In all these positions,
taken in the aggregate, the Mexican forces amounted to
about twenty-five thousand men. All of them were
strong positions when skilfully and energetically defended.
It is very evident, however, that if Contreras were taken,
San Antonia would be turned and rendered useless.
Churubusco then might be attacked without touching
Antonia. The enemy must then concentrate his defence
at the tete du pont of Churubusco. This actually took
place.
The American positions we have already detailed.
The object of Scott was first to force the fortifications of
Contreras, and thus command the road through San An-
gel, and then to carry Churubusco, when the main road
would be open to the city of Mexico. For this purpose,
the brigades under the command of General P. F. Smith
were detached to surround, if possible, the height of Con-
treras ; Shields to support and hold the road ; Worth to
check Antonia and divert in front ; while Quitman gar-
risoned the depot of San Augustine. The immediate ar-
rangements and command at Contreras devolved upon
General Smith, who most ably carried out the vjews of
the commander-in-chief. The nature of the ground and
* General Rinoon'i Official Report.
u
STORMING OF C0NTRERA8. 255
the negligence of the Mexicans favored our troops in ta-
king their respective places. We have seen that the
brigades of Riley, Cadwallader, and Smith, each took
their position in rear of the enemy, with only the crest of
a hill between. Shields' position in the hamlet was such,
that' he was able on one hand to cut off or check rein-
forcements, and on the other to intercept the retreat of
Valencia. In fact, the Americans had cut the line of the
Mexican defence, and were thus able to attack their posts
and divisions in detail. This was done.
At six A. M. the arrangements for battle were all made.
The place and course of Riley's brigade was given by
Lieutenant Tower, of the engineers. In the same man-
ner, that of Cadwallader was pointed out by Lieutenants
Beauregard and Brooks ; while Captain Lee directed the
course of the column under Colonel Ransom.^ All these
officers had reconnoitred the enemy's camp and forces.
When the word was given, our men sprung up in rear
and on both flanks of the astonished Mexicans, rushed
over the crest of the hill, and dashed pell-mell into the
intrenchments ! Nothing could resist them : the batteries
were taken ; the army of Valencia driven out in utter
rout ; and its flying remnants pursued on the roadrto Mex-
ico ! So admirable were the dispositions, and so impul-
sively energetic, that the battle was ended almost as soon
as begun. The actual conflict lasted but seventeen min-
utes! The pursuit was for hours. The results were
gigantic.
Of the scene during the battle, and the fierce ardor
> Scott'i OflBdal Report, (No. 33.)
256 STORMING OF CONTKISRAS.
which impelled the American^ troops, we take a descrip-
tion from the same graphic writer whom we have before
quoted. '' At last, just at daylight, General Smith slowly
walking up, asked if all was ready. A look • answered
him. * Merij forward P and we did * forward.' Spring-
ing up at once, Riley's brigade opened, when the crack of
a hundred rifles started tiie Mexicans from tlieir astonish*
ment, and they opened their fire. Useless fire — for we
were so close that tiiey overshot us, and before they could
turn their pieces on us we were on them. Then such
cheers arose as you never heard. The men rushed
forward like demons, yelling and firing the while. The
caniagc was frightful, and though they fired sharply, it was
of no use. Tlic earthen parapet was cleared in an in-
stant, and the blows of the stocks could be plainly heard,
mingled with the yells and groans around. Just before
the charge was made, a large body of lancers came wind-
ing up the road, looking most splendidly in their brilliant
uniforms. They never got to the work, but turned and
fled.' In an instant all was one mass of confusion, each
^ The Mexicans unifonnly, in their reports and letteis, apeak of the peo-
ple of the United S^tates of the north, as " Aniericaus," although they are
themselves just as much " Americans." ITiis settles the question, whether
the people of the United States have a name,
* This dastardly conduct of the Mexican cavalry is thus spoken of in
the Official Report of General Salas, which corresponds in this respect
with the above account :
" As soon as I observed the dispersion of our forces, I endeavored to
check it Crj'iug * Victory to Mexico !' and sounding the signal of attack,
I succeeded in ruUyiug our troops, aud ordered General Aiiastasia Torrs-
jon to make a charge with his cavalry; but this chief, fur from obeying
my orders, fled like a coward, and the cavalry following his example,
BT0RMIN6 OF CONTRBRAS. 257
trying to be foremost in the flight. The road was literally
blocked up, and while many perished by their own guns,
it was almost impossible to fire on the mass from the dan-
ger of killing our own men. Some fled up the ravine on
the left, or on the right, and many of these were slain by
turning their own guns on them. Towards tlie city, the
rifles and 2d infantry led ofl* the pursuit. Seeing that a
large crowd of fugitives were jammed up in a pass in the~
road, some of the men ran through the corn-field, and by
thus heading them off and firing down upon them, about
thirty men tpok over five hundred prisoners, nearly EC hun-
dred of them officers."^
In the mean time, the enemy (who previous to the as-
sault were ignorant of the American forces in the ravine)
had commenced a heavy fire on Shields' brigade in the
hamlet. This, however, ceased when the charge was
made by Riley. Shields then ordered his brigade, com-
posed of the New York and South Carolina regiments,
into the road, to cut ofi* the retreat of such of Valencia's
corps as passed that way. In this they succeeded. Large
parties of the enemy were met by the fire of these regi-
ments, and either scattered through the fields or made
prisoners. At this point on the road three hundred and
sixty-five were taken, of whom twenty-five were officers,
and among the latter was General Nicholas Mendoza.^
The victory of Contreras' was brilliant and decisive.
trampled down the infantry in their flight, and completed our defeat" —
Sala^ Official Report, Aagost 28th, 1847.
' Letter of an officer m the New York CSoorieir.
' Official Report of General Shields.
* Official Report of General Scott
w2 17
258 RESULTS OF THE YICTORT.
The aggregate loss of the enemy was s^ven hundred
killed, about one thousand wounded, eight hundred and
thirteen prisoners, of whom eighty-eight were officers,
(including four generals,) twenty-two pieces of brass can-
non, seven hundred pack-mules, and an immense number
of small-arms, shot, shells, and ammunition. But the
most important loss, to an experienced military eye, was
that of one of the strong positions by which the roads to
Mexicp were commanded, and in consequence of which
San Antonia was turned, and Churubusco attacked in
flank. It was only two miles from the point where
Shields captured Mendoza to San Angel, and but three
miles (by good roads) from the last point (by Coyhoacan)
to Churubusco. On these roads the American troops
rushed m pursuit of the flying enemy, till they united
with Worth's corps in the storm of the church and tete
du pont at the last place. ,
Among the generals taken, were Salas, Mendoza,
Garcia, and Guadalupe. The two former appear to
have been men of talent, while of General Valencia, their
commander, nothing was tlien heard ; and he seems to
have been either wanting in skill and courage, or to have
been so overwhelmed with his misfortune, as to be un-
willing to make his appearance.' By a private corre-
spondence' between him and Santa Anna, it seems that
the latter had directed him, on the 1 7th or 1 8th, (previous
to the arrival of the army in front of the fortifications,) to
abandon his post at San Angel, (probably the fortification,)
* Official Report of (General Salas.
* Private intercepted correspondence between Valencia and Santa Anna,
dutad the 18Ui and 19th of Au((nst
PlBASINO INCIDBNT. 259
which Valencia, on the 18th, gave reasons why he should
not obey ; and on the 19th Santa Anna yields, but doubts
the propriety of Valencia maintaining his post. Both ap-
pear to have been wrong in a military point of view. The
heights of Contreras were a proper point to defend, but
batteries should have been placed on two or three other
eminences ; and, above all, the commander should never
have allowed a storming party to get into a ravine, within
gunshot, without being known. Such a fact argues gross
negligence.
One of the striking events of the day, was the recap-
ture of the identical pieces of artillery taken at Buena
Vista by the Mexicans. This circumstance is thus related
by the commander-in-chief :^
'* One of the most pleasing incidents of the victory is
the recapture, in the works, by Captain Drum, 4th artil-
lery, under Major Gardner, of the two brass six-pounders,
taken from another company of the same regiment, though
without the loss of honor, at the glorious battle of Buena
Vista, about which guns the whole regiment had mourned
for so many months. Coming up, a little later, I had the
happiness to join in the protracted cheers of the gallant
4th, on the joyous event ; and, indeed, the whole army
sympathizes in its just pride and exultation.*^
' General Soott'i Offieiftl Report
' In connection with thii ciromnBtanee, it is prop^ to ny that Captain
OBrien, who commanded the battery to which theee gnni were attached
at Baena Vista, requested a court of mqniry, which was held in March,
1847. The court found the fact, that he was the last man who left the
pieces, the otbea having been all killed and wounded. Their opinion was
thus given :
260 STRKNQTH 07 THB ARMIKS.
The strength of the two armies in this engagement,
may be thus stated. Including the brigade of Shields,
placed in the hamlet, and which we have shown to have
done most effective service, the American troops amounted
to about four thousand five hundred ; while the corps of
Valencia and Mendoza were seven thousand, and at least
twelve thousand were on the same road. If we deduct
Shields' brigade, as keeping in check the main body of
Mexicans, it is probable the actual battle was fought by
three thousand five hundred on our side, against seven
thousand Mexicans in fortified intrenchments. The dis-
crepancy in numbers was not so great as in some other
actions ; but, on the other hand, the military dispositions
were admirable, and the battle was won before it was
fought.
We must now follow the army in its bloody march
through and over the intrenchments of Churubusco. At
8 A. M., or two hours from its commencement, the fight
of Contreras may be said to have been completed ; the
OPINION.
** The court w tmanimously of Uie opinion that the conduct of Captain
O'Brien, during the whole time, was bold and intrepid, and deeerving of
the highest commendation. The firm stand made by him in the aller-
noon, by which he sacrificed his whole section, contributed largely to the
BQCcess of the day, if it did not save us from disaster."
II. The proeeedmgs of the court, in the above case, having been sub-
mitted to and examined by the conunanding general, are by him fully ap-
proved.
IIL The court of mquiry, of which Brevet Colonel W. G. Belknap, 8th
iafantry, is president, is hereby diswlved.
By order of Maj. Gen. Taylor.
rSigneiO W. W. S. BLISS, Asst A^yt Gen
POSITIOir OF CHURUBirSOO. 261
greater part of the time being occupied in pursuit of the
broken and scattered remnants of Valencia's division —
Valencia himself having disappeared.
Churubusco is really about four miles from the heights
of Contreras, in a direct line east ; but the road goes
northeast to San Angel, and then forks southeast, so
that the distance by the road is about six miles. This
point was defended by General Rincon, (as we have
before .said,) with the regiments of Independencia and
Bravo — ^reinforced largely on the morning of the 20th.*
The retreating bodies of men, who had occupied An-
tonia, and the fragments left from Contreras, were con*
centrated in and about Churubusco, where they ar-
rived but little before the advancing and attacking regi-
ments of Scott. That morning, the commander of
artillery, Don Martin Correra, arrived, bringing six
pieces of cannon, which were placed in battery on the
road to Coyhoacan, and in the centre of a field-work,
erected around the hacienda, which was at the com-
mencement of the causeway leading to the western gate
of the city, and had to be passed before getting on the
road. This hacienda consisted of an enclosure of stone
walls — ^inside of which, was a stone building higher than
these walls ; and above all, a stone church, higher than
the rest. The outside walls were pierced with two
ranges of embrasures, and high enough to command the
surrounding country, and fire plungingly upon those ap-
proaching to the assault.' The church and the hacienda
were surrounded by this outside field-work. About
* General Rincon'i Official Deqiatch, dated Auguat 26tb.
' Letter of an officer, in the New Yoik Courier.
262 DESCRIPTION OF CHURVBV8C0.
three hundred yards in tbe xear, and a little to the east,
was the tite du ponty at the intersection of the cause-
way, or principal road with a canal or river. By passing
along the causeway, the church and field-work would
be left a little on the west side, and the troops would be
first arrested by the tete du pont. This was the case
with Worth's division.
On the morning of the 20th, about 8 a. m ., when it was
fully ascertained that the enemy (now defeated at Con-
treras) was in full retreat towards the great causeway
road from San Antonia to Mexico, the two brigades (one
of Worth's and one of Quitman's) which had been or-
dered to make a diversion in front of Contreras, were or-
dered back to their respective divisions. Quitman was
directed with his remaining brigade (Shields' being now
under the direction of General Twiggs, on the road from
San Angel) to garrison San Augustine, the general depot
of the army, and the loss of which could not be risked.*
The division of Worth was ordered to proceed to the
attack of San Antonia, and when that was carried, to
march on and rejoin the other divisions in the attack of
the defences of Churubusco. Accordingly, the brigades
of Clarke and Garland (Worth's) proceeded to the at-
tack of Antonia. This post, left unsupported by the line
of troops, now driven from Contreras, and with com-
paratively open ground about it, could be turned. Ac-
cordingly, Colonel Clarke's brigade, conducted by Cap-
tain Mason of the engineers, and Lieutenant Hardcastle
of the topographical corps, turned the enemy's right,
by a sweep to the left, and came out on the high road
* Scott's Official Report, Na 32, August 28Ui.
\\
ATTACK ON CHURPBITSCO. 263
to Mexico. In the mean time, the garrison had retreated,
and were now cut in the centre by the advancing column
of Clarke. One-half were driven off towards the east,
and the other part on the causeway towards Churubusco.
The brigade of Garland advancing in front, now oc-
cupied the evacuated hamlet — capturing the artillery in
its batteries. These brigades were soon united, and
rushed on in hot pursuit.^
The grand movement of the day now commenced —
the march of the united army (Quitman's 2d brigade ex-
cepted) on the 'fortified post of Churubusco. This was
made in two columns — the division of Worth from San
Antonia in front, and the divisions of Twiggs and Pillow,
with the brigade of Shields from Coyhoacan ; to which
point they had pursued the remains of the Mexican
army, — ^routed at Contreras, and followed through San
Angel. This naturally resolved the battle into two dis-
tinct actions on the same field, and so clearly connected,
as to be within half cannon-shot at the centres of contest
These were respectively, the tele du pont, attacked by
the first column under Worth, and the fortified church
and hacienda, attacked by the column of Twiggs and
Pillow. Let us first follow Worth's attack.
It had got to be about I p. m., when the different di-
visions from the south and west were united, not in line,
(nor together,) but within the same circuit of attack.'
At the same time, the garrisons of Churubusco, (strongly
reinforced,) the brigade of Perez, at Portalis, the broken
corps from San Angel, and the principal divisions of
> Scott's Official Report
' Lettflr in the New York Coorier
264 BATTLB OF CHURUBUSCO.
Santa Anna's army were all prepared for battle, having
concentrated in and about Churubusco. The division
of Twiggs had commenced the attack on the fortified
church about an hour, amidst an incessant roll of fire,
when Worth, with Cadwallader's brigade, (Pillow's di-
vision,) commenced manoeuvring on the tete du pont.
The other fortification attacked by Twiggs, was just half-
gunshot to the left, and but for the attack on it, would
have poured a destructive fire on Worth. Both were
attacked simultaneously — and thus the fire of Pablo de
Churubusco was in a measure diverted. The brigade
of Colonel Garland, with Smilii's light battalion, moved
along a little to the right of the road, directly up to the
tete du pont. .They advanced under the fire of a long
line of infantry. Clarke's brigade marched at the same
lime, directly on the road; and this again was supported
by the Uth and 14th regiments, (Cadwallader's,) and the
jAole moved steadily up under a tremendous discharge
of both small-arms and cannon. Most of these corps,
advancing perpendicularly, suffered greatly from ihe fire
of batteries at the bridge-head.^ At length, the line in
front of Garland's column gave way, and made a rapid
retreat to Mexico. Tin; tele du pont was reached by
Clarke's — its deep ditch was crossed by the 6th and 8th
infantry — the parapets stormed — and one of the most
formidable defences of Mexico crowned by its capture,
the third action of the memorable 20(h of August.
In the meanwhile, a yet more active, bloody, and
eventful action took place to the left of Worth's line, in
the attack on what may be called the Citadel of Churu-
' ScoU's Official Report
\\
BATTLE OF CHtJRUBUSCO. 265
busco, the fortification at the hacienda, before described.
Scott, who on the 19th had been posted on an eminence
in front of Contreras, and on that night gave directions
for the early storm of Contreras — had this morning given
(amidst the trophies of the field) his orders for the
forward movement of Worth, and now (in the forenoon)
joined General Pillow's division in its march to Coy-
hoacan. Here, just one mile west of Churubusco, at a
point made convenient by several cross-roads, he made
the arrangements for the day. Cadwallader's brigade
was detached (as we have seen) to reinforce Worth at
Antonia. Twiggs's division was ordered (except the
rifles) to attack the citadel, San Pablo, in front. Pierce's
brigade first, and soon after Shields', were directed to
take a road which led to the rear of Churubusco, to
divert the troops under Santa Anna, and threaten his
right and rear ; with a view also, should the attack in
front succeed, to cut off the retreat of the Mexican forces
to the city. General Shields commanded this corps,
which was directed in its course by Captain Lee, of the
engineers.^ These dispositions were rapidly made, and
as quickly executed. The troops moved regularly and
gallantly into their places, and the battle of Churubusco
was commenced, which, for three hours was vigorously
maintained amidst the raging of all the elements, which
mingle their terrible voices and their crimson banners on
the battle-field. The veteran regiments of Smith and
Riley quailed not amidst the whirlwind of fire, and the
storm of balls which rolled from the well-directed guns
of San Pablo in front ; while far to the left, the gallant
* Scott's OiB&ial Report
266 BATTLE OF CHURUBU8C0.
volunteers of Carolina and New York, were rapidly
filling iheir untimely, though glorious graves ! Here,
the Mexican general, Rincon, ably defended his post.
There, the masses of Santa Anna poured themselves on
the division of Shields ! A lurid canopy of sulphurous
smoke rose over the heads of the combatants, and, far
over the ancient plains of Mexico, rolled the roar of
cannon and the crash, of arms — that awful music, which
makes the song of battle, the prelude of death, and the
voice of angry nations. One might imagine the fierce
spirit of Guatimozin hovering exultant over the plain,
where the Celt and the Saxon, the enemies of his race,
poured out in mortal conflict, (as if in just retribution,)
their blood and llieir lives, over the graves of his fathers.
In the centre of the batteries of San Pablo was placed
the company of St. Patrick's, formed out of deserters from
the American army.* These men fought desperately and
skilfully, causing the deaths of many of the assailants, and
delaying llie capture of the post. An officer of the rifles
thus describes the scene :^ '* The firing was mo^ tremen-
dous ; in fact, one continued roll while the combat lasted.
The enemy, from their elevated position, could readily see
our men, who were unable to get a clear view from their
position. Three of the pieces were manned by the * de-
serters,^ a body of about one hundred who had deserted
from the ranks of our army during the war. They were
enrolled in two companies, commanded by a deserter,'
* Report of General Rincon, who Bays that the battalion of Bravo and
the companies of St Patrick wore stationed in the front batterie&
* Letter in the New York Courier.
* This niau*s name is Thomas Riiey, a deserter from the 3d infantry.
BITTXE OF CHTBUBVSCO. 367
and were better uniformed and disciplined than the rest
of the army. These men fought most desperately ; and
are said not only to have shot down several of our officers
whom they knew, but to have pulled down the white flag
. of surrender no less than three times."
It Was now two hours and a half from the commence-
ment of the battle by the division of Twiggs, when the
Ute du pont gave way before the storming parties of
Worth. The enemy were driven out at the point of the
bayonet, and the larger part of Worth's and Pillow's divis-
ions crossed the bridge and followed in vigorous pursuit.
Captain Larkin Smith and Lieutenant SnelJing of the 8th
infantry, however, seized upon a field-piece and fired
upon the church, or citadel. The furious battle at that
point still continued ; but in half an hour more — just
three hours from the commencement — the citadel (San
Pablo) was entered, sword in hand, by two companies
of the 3d infantry under Captains Alexander and J. M.
Smith, with Lieutenant Shepler. At the same moment
the white flag had been exhibited, and Captain Alexander
leceived the surrender, and hoisted on the balcony the
flags of the gallant 3d infantry. A fourth time, in one
day, had the eagle of victory perched upon her favorite
standard. The bold bird of war seemed to rejoice with
exultant flight in the career of the conquering Saxon !
But the dead and the dying were not yet to be left to
the stillness of advancing night. Far to the left the tide
of war still rolled its angry waves. The brigades of
Pierce and Shields, supported by the rifles, had encoun-
tered, to the rear of the works of Churubusco, four
thousand Mexican iniantry supported by three thousand
carahy. Hotly and furiously did the battle rage in this
268 RESULTS OF THE BATTLE.
quarter. Regiment after regiment, the 9lh, 12th, 15th
infantry, with Ransom, Wood, and Morgan, came up to the
charge. Here were covered with glory and with blood
the chivalry of Carolina, the bold soldiers of New York !
Here Pierce, fainting with pain, was taken from the field ;
here the brave Butler fell ; and here, a ffth time on the
same extraordinary day, the banner of the Anglo-American
waved over troops triumphantly victorious ! The Span-
ish-Aztecs retreated from the bloody scene of their defeat,
leaving hundreds of their bravest prisoners, and hundreds
more to mingle their dust with the undistinguished dead,
to be remembered no more. Over the dead and over the
long causeway the fugitives are pursued by the gallant
dragoons, and it was not till at the very gates of Mexico
that the impulsive Captain Kearney reined in his horse.'
In the citadel (church) of Churubusco the brave Gen-
erals Rincon and Anaya,* (provisional president,) with
hundreds of others, were taken prisoners. Thus liad the
army of Scott at Contreras, Antonia, the Tete du Pont,
Churubusco, and in the field, five times in one glorious
day, defeated the enemy in sight of the capital of
Mexico, in that wonderful valley where, three hundred
years before, Cortez had overwhelmed the Aztecs with
the invincibles of Spain. History, the Kaleidescope of
humanity, is again exhibiting strange and various and
mysterious events. The northman had come from the
dark forests of the Danube and the Elbe to overwhelm
* Orders had been dispatched to recall the dragoons, but they did not
receive them ; and Kearney lost his arm, and stopped only at the gates
of Mexica
' General Anaya has since been elected president
BBFLXCTIONS ON THE BATTLE. 269
I
the Roman in the English isles ; again he embarks on the
waters of the Atlantic and penetrates the woods of the
western continent, builds republics, renews the glory of
civilization, and now sends the chariots of war to over-
whelm in conquest the descendants of those very invinci-
bles whom Cortez had victoriously led from the Gulf of
Mexico to the palace of the Montezumas. Is there no
ministry of retribution in this — ^no angel of fate unfolding
the cycles of providence ?
Scott, now at Churubusco, turns with a glad spirit and
grateful heart to the troops, and rejoices with them in the
martial glory of their country. The old soldiers seize his
hand ; there is silence, and the old commander pours
forth '' in eloquent and patriotic words the commendation
of their gallant conduct."^
An officer, who was present, says : '' During this
thrilling scene, I looked up to a balcony of the, church
that had been so bravely defended. It was filled by
Mexican prisoners. Among them General Rincon, a
venerable old soldier, was leaning forward, his counte-
nance glowing and his eyes sparkling with every mani-
festation of delight. I verily beheve that the old veteran,
with the spirit of a true soldier, upon beholding a victo-
rious general so greeted by the brave men he had just
led to victory, forgot for a moment his own position, that
he was defeated and a prisoner ; and saw and thought
only of the enthusiasm by which he was surrounded."*
First. Let us now examine the results of this great
day in American military annals. Let us review in brief
' Letter in the Journal of Commerce.
* Letter in the Joanud of Commerce.
x2
270 - RESULTS OF THS BATTLS.
the actions of the day and the defences overcome. 1st.
There were', as we have said, five distinct actions, al-
though the last three were fought as parts of one great
battle. There were, 1, The storm of Contreras ; 2, The
capture of Antonia ; 3, The storm of the tete du pont ;
4, The battle and assault of the church and outworks of
Churubusco; 6, The action in the rear of Churubusco
with the right wing of Santa Anna's corps. These last
three were parts of one drama, but distinct in the skill,
the action, and the relative effects. The t£te du pont
was about four hundred yards from the fortified church
of Churubusco ; and the field in which Pierce and Shields
were engaged, nearly a mile in rear of both. There is no
doubt the fierce attack on the church (citadel) aided the
divisions of Worth in their assault on the- tete du pont ;
aud there is no doubt, either, that the fall of the latter
determined, in a great measure, the fall of the former.
2d, The next point of interest is the relative proportions
of cither army in numbers and position. It must be re-
membered here, that the American army were in the heart
of an enemy's country, and were assailing fortified posi-
tions. These facts may be fairly said to have doubled
the real strength of the Mexican army. At Contreras the
relative numbers, actually infighty were — ^Americans, three
thousand five hundred — Mexicans, seven thousand : in
field, supporting, all counted, four thousand five hundred
Americans — ^nineteen thousand Mexicans : at Churubusco^
in all parts of the field, nine thousand Americans — thirty
thousand Mexicans. There is no doubt that the actual
garrison of the fortified church, under General Rincon,
was comparatively small, and that those who defended
the mere batteries of the tete du pont were not very
8TRSNOTH OY THE MEXICANS. 271
numerous ; but behind these, and especially behind the
tete du pont, were long lines of infantry and cavalry,
amounting, taken in all, to nearly thirty thousand.
3d. The third point is the strength of the batteries and
defences. The following is a statement of these :^
INPANTIIT
oum.
B&EAITWOUa
22
24
2
16
BATTK&nUk
Contreras. • 1
San Antonia 7
Churubusco 2
Total 10 61 2
At the tSte du pont of Churubusco, a canal, or river,
' passed behind, over which was a bridge. This was the
field-defence of Santa Anna's army, which lay behind ;
and certainly any one who will examine the positions and
defences of the Mexicans at Churubusco must pronounce
them very strong, well chosen, and well defended, in
regard to the fortified points.
Second. What were the results in respect to the
enemy ? These positions, which commanded the main
roads to Mexico m that direction, were all taken; the
• causeways were laid open to the very gates of the city ;
and the vast materiel arrayed for its defence destroyed
or captured.
At the end of this great day in war, Scott, while the
troops were yet pursuing, proceeded on to Tacubaya ; but
on the way was met with propositions for peace. After
* Tak«ii fhmi a ftatemtiit made by Captain Leo.
272 THE ARMISTICE.
making his reply, he proceeded to Tacubaya, near the
strong castle of Chapultepec. The guns from the castle
were silent, and the headquarters of the American army
were soon safely established in the palace of the arch-
bishop, a huge pile of buildings, surrounded with beautifiil
gardens. Before him, in full view, rose the domes and
spires of the famed city, environed by beautiful lakes, and
the richest natural scenery. He was at the gates of the
'' Halls of the Montezumas," with an army flushed with
victory, and impatient to be led to the assault. But nei-
ther the glory of military renown, nor the rich treasures
which have been dug from the mines of Mexico, could
dazzle the eye of the patriot soldier, or swerve him from
the obligations to humanity.
Before the carnage of another battle, he must make one
final effort to stay the iron arm of destruction, and reclaim
warring nations to the paths of peace. Hence his beau-
tiful letter, expressing the Christian sentiment, " Enough
blood has been shed in this unnatural war." When the
echoes of the cannon shall have died away, and the clangor
of arms shall have ceased — when the steeled warrior shall
have gone to his rest, and the conqueror and the van-
quished shall lie down together — Christianity will weave
her unfading chaplet for the soldier who has ever been
true to her highest obligations and benign requirements.^
■ri ' > The following are the results of the battlea of the 20th i-^
American losa — killed, woonded, and missing, 1,053.
r Mexican Iom — 3,500 prisonera ; 1,500 killed, wounded; and missing ;
37 pieces artillery captured ; small-arms, anmmnition, and equipmeuts
for an army.
TBI ARHI8TICI. 273
CHAPTER Xni.
Peace Negotiations — ^Preeideiit PoUl'i ComnunioiL — Mexican ConditioniL
— American Ultimatum.— Failure of Negotiations — ScoU'i Notice to
Santa Anna^ — Trial and Execution of the Deterten. — Description of
Chapultepec« — Of Molmo del Rey« — Mexican Defences — March of
Worth.— Strength of his Corps — Battle of Molmo del Rcy.— Mexican
Lon. — Evacuation of Molino del Rey. — Preparalions for the Attack of
Chapultepec — Erection of Batteries. — Storm of Chupultepec. — Ac-
tion of the 13th. — Capture of Mexico — Entrance into the City. — Scotfa
Address to the Soldiers — Insurrection of the Leperos — Appearance of
the City.
In the last chapter we recorded the memorable events
of the 20ih of August, 1847, in the valley of Mexico, —
events unequalled in their extraordinary character and
their dramatic interest by any preceding part of the mili-
tary history of America. Kearney had hardly been re-
called from his adventurous charge to the gates of Mexico,
when the shades of evening gathered round the bloody,
field of Churubusco. The battle had passed, and the vale
lay as silent as the lonely bodies of the slain. Passed'.
away are all the rolling thunders of the red artillery, and
quenched their fires as the silent and quenched volcanoes
of the snow-crowned Popocatapetl, rearing its cold head
upon the distant horizon. Nature sleeps, and the dead
sleep, and the weary soldier sleeps, while the sentry and
the stars keep watch together. But though the fires oi
volcanoes may sleep, and the artillery may cease to flash,
the events of time and providence will never sleep.
18
2?4 THE ARMISTICS.
History motes on. Its recording pen neyer ceases to
write while man is an actor in the drama of proTidencey
and humanity continues to develop its mighty and myste-
rious powers.
On the morning of the 21st, Scott, en route to Coyhoa-
can, was met by commissioners from Santa Anna, pro-
posing an armistice. The time was not then agreed to,
but Scott told them he sliould sleep that night at Tacu-
baya. The commissioners then told him that if he would
delay his march a few hours, they would send an order to
the fortress of Chapultepec not to fire on him ! The
general, however, did not delay his march, but entered
Tacubaya early in the afternoon, attended by the dragoons
alone ; Worth's division did not arrive till late in the eve-
ning.* That night Scott occupied the Archiepiscopal
Palace of Mexico. At this time it is unquestionably true
that the American general might have entered the plaza
of Mexico, or have demolished its splendid edifices by the
fire of his bombs. He did not ; but, in conformity with
the dictates of humanity, on the following morning re-
ceived the propositions of the Mexican commissioners for
a truce. This he arranged on his own terms, when the
negotiations commenced.
To understand this negotiation, we must recur to the
events in the order of time. In the first place, we must
note the commission of President Polk to Mr. N. P. Trist.
It seems that on the 15th day of April, 1847, the Presi-
dent gave a formal commission to Mr. Trist, in which he
states that he has *' invested him, in the fullest and most
complete manner, with ample power and authority, in the
* Lotter in the Journal of Commeree.
MR. trist's mission. 275
name of the United States, to meet and confer with any
person or persons, who shall have similar authority from
the republic of Mexico, and between them to negotiate
and conclude an arrangement of the differences which
exist between the two countries — a treaty of peace, ami-
ty, and lasting boundaries."' The President had no power
by the Constitution, to constitute a mission to a foreign
country, nor would he have power to make a treaty with-
out the advice and consent of the Senate, Mr. Trist,
then, notwithstanding his commission, was in fact the
mere agent of the President, and no more. Accordingly,
he carried out with him from the department of state a
" project of a treaty** to be presented to the Mexican gov-
emment.' The inference from this transaction is, that
the cabinet at Washington supposed that the Mexican
people were anxious for peace, and there was nothing for
the President of the United States to do but to say on
what terms peace should be made. The opposite of tbLs
idea appears to have been the state of the Mexican mind,
for they met the American agent virith instructions to their
commissioners that the treaty should be made on the basis
that they had triumphed, and as if the war could be pros-
ecuted by them with advantage.' In this spirit met the
commissioners. Mr. Trist, the agent of President Polk,
at two thousand miles from his principal, tied down to
the letter and detail of a treaty drawn up by the Secretary
of State, virithout the power to change it ; and the Mexican
' S«e copy of Mi. Triit*i eomnuHkio.
' S«e official copy of the ** Project of a TVoaty.
' See oonditkiiis for the Meziean commiiwkinew drawn up hy Santa
Anna, Fteheio, &e.» d^e.
276 COMMISSIONERS APPOIMTBD.
commissioners meeting him, as if their country was in*
tact, and their arms invulnerable to conquest.
On th^ 25th of August, Mr. Trist addressed a note to
the Mexican Minister of Foreign Relations, informing him
that he is ready to treat with commissioners on the part
of Mexico. On the 26th, Mr. Pacheco replies, that he is
engaged in appointing commissioners for that purpose,
who would assemble the following evening at the village
of Atzcopozalco, an intermediate point between the two
armies.
The invitation and appointment Mr. Trist accepted in
a note of the same date.
Among the commissioners appointed by the Mexican
secretary was General Herrera, formerly president of the
republic. This distinguished man promptly declined the
appointinent. The grounds on which he declined are
worthy of note. He was president in 1846, when the
mission of Slidell occurred. He was willing to hear Sli-
dell state his terms ; but that person, as we have already
stated, had neither the patience nor temper to wait and
watch events, but impetuously demanded that he should
be immediately received. The downfall of Herrera im-
mediately took place ; and Herrera now says : ** For the
single act of being willing to listen to his propositions,
my administration was calumniated in the most atrocious
manner, this act alone causing the revolution which de-
prived me of the command ; and to take part in the same
question, at this day, would cause a renewal of the cal-
umnies which then assailed me." Mr. Pacheco, however,
insisted upon his acceptance, and he finally acted on the
commission. The Mexican commission was composed
of the following persons :
\\
COMMISSIONERS MEET. fgfl
Don Jose Joaquin de Herrera, general of diYisisip
Don Bernardo Conto, general of brigadoi
Don Ignacio Mora y Yillamil, general.
Don Miguel Atristain,
Don Jose Miguel Arroyo, Secretary.
The great points of negotiation were the boundaries to
be drawn between Mexico and the United States, one
party insisting upon territory to be taken from the other.
The boundaries in the ** project" of Mr. Trist were chief-
ly these :
Article 4th of the " project" requires that the boundary
line should commence in front of the mouth of the Rio
Grande, and should follow the middle of that river to the
southern boundary of New Mexico ; thence west with the
southern line of New Mexico to the western boundary ;
thence north with the river Gila till it empties into the
Rio Colorado ; thence down the Colorado and the gulf
of Mexico to the Pacific.
Article 8th required the free right of way forever over
the isthmus of Tehuantepec.
An examination of the map will show that our govern-
ment demanded, Ist^ The cession of the disputed terri-
tory between the Nueces and the Rio Grande ; 2d, Of
New Mexico ; 3<i, Of both Upper and Lower California.
The Mexican commissioners presented a counter-
project, which contained the following definition of boun-
dary :
1^^, The dividing line between the two republics shall
commence in the bay of Corpus Christi ; thence to the
mouth of the Nueces ; thence with the middle of said
stream to its source ; i thence west to the eastern boundary
N Y
878 TERMS BBMANDBD.
of New Mexico ; thence north with that boundary to the
87th degree of latitude ; thence west with that parallel tc
the Pacific. 2d, That the goyemment of Mexico would
found no settlement or colony between the Nueces and
the Rio Grande, leaving that country as an uninhabited
frontier.
The map shows that this proposition grants to the Uni«
ted States the best part of California, while it proposes to
leave the territory in dispute an uninhabited region. Bar-
ren by nature, it is not likely to invite inhabitants till the
better parts of the continent are settled. In a subsequent
oral discussion between Mr. Trist and the Mexican com-
missioners, it appears that the former was willing to
abandon the claim to Liower California, and to refer the
decision on the Nueces territory to the cabinet at Wash-
ington.^ As between Mr. Trist and the Mexican com-
nnssivniers, the failure of the negotiation turned wholly
on the claim of the south part of New Mexico; for,
above tlio 37th degree Mexico had conceded every thing,
and Mr. Trist, in the name of the United States, was
willing to concede Lower California. New Mexico had
never been claimed by the United States at all, previous
to this negotiation, nor had we any plausible claim to it
tixeept that which President Polk had formally disclaimed,
--thnt of conquest.*
The lonnal report made by the Mexican commissioners
to the Heorotary for foreign relations, the 7th of Septem-
ber, ISI7, announced that the discussions had closed and
* 'Vi\f^ Mitxionit (NMuiiuMQouere' statement to the secretary of forei|ru
AttkU«, «iAt<Hl S<«|>t. 7th. 1847.
* IN««ii)«u( IN4k Uiiclaimed conqiMet in hii
(OTIATloNJ^^lRBD. 279
the negotiations failed.^ In il^nean time, various docu-
ments had been issued by the Mexican authorities, which
disclosed the fact th|^ Mexico was not ready for peace.
One was a proki^pi the representatives of the states of
Mexico, Jaliyfiflnd Zacatecas, signed by Valentin Go-
mez Farias^JBifMboIleague deputies, declaring that, un-
der existij^HEi^slances, ** the city of Mexico would not
allow tl^^HRsary freedom in its discussions and delib-
eration|^^K)ongress should assemble in that city, and that
it vfoJM not comport with the dignity of the republic that
its representatives should deliberate there on this matter."
They also declared that any arrangement in regard to ex-
ternal relations, '* without the ratification of Congress,'^
would be null and unconstitutional. They further affirm,
that this step is taken with the express view to save the
republic " from the ignominy which would inevitably at-
tach to a treaty concluded and ratified under the guns of
the enemy, and on the day succeeding unlooked-for re-
verses."^ At the same time, the secretary of state issued
a circular to the states of Puebia and Mexico, calling for a
levy en masse, '* in order that they may attack and harass
the enemy with whatever weapons each may conveniently
procure, whether good or bad, by fire and sword, and by
every practicable means which it is possible to employ in
the annihilating of an invading army." These and other
declarations and documents, prove conclusively that, how-
ever fairly and sincerely General Herrera and his col-
leagues may have conducted the negotiations, yet, in fact,
the Mexican population were indisposed to peace.
' There is no evidence that any conBiderable number of Mexicans have
ever been for peace.
280 AKMISnCS TULMIVATBD.
On the 6th of September, Scott had giTen General
Santa Anna notice of certain breaches of the armistice.
To this the Mexican chief repUed with similar complaints.
On the 7th, the failure of the negotiations became known,
and General Scott took his measures for the reconmience-
ment of hostilities.
Before we proceed, however, to narrate events of new
and extraordinary interest in the valley of Mexico, we
must turn aside to witness another and a sadder tragedy
— one m which no rays of glory light up the darkness
of death, but the gloomy curtains of despair and shame
are drawn round the unpitied and unhonored crim-
inal. Desertion in the face of an enemy, and during
the existence of actual war, has been, among all nations
and in all lime, punished with death. It is treason — dis-
loyalty — in its worst, least excusable, and most dangerous
form. Of this crime, were *' the companies of St. Pat-
rick"* palpably and undeniably guilty. They had fought in
the ranks of the Mexican army, at the batteries of Churu-
busco ; they had fought longest and hardest against those
very colors which they had sworn to defend ; they were
deserters, and many of them were taken prisoners. Soon
after the battles of the 20th, and while the negotiations
were pending, twenty-nine of these men were tried by a
general court-martial, of which Colonel Riley of the 2d
infantry was president. The court found these men
guilty, (two-thirds of the whole court concurring in each
several case,) and sentenced each one of them to hang
by the neck till dead. In a general order, dated tlie 8th
of September, General Scott approved the sentence, with
* Soe the Report of General Rincon.
EXECVTtON OF THE DBBBRTERS. 281
ihe exception of three, who had deserted previous to the
commencement of the war, and two others, who were rec-
ommended to favor by the court ; and four, in whose pallia-
tion there appeared some mitigating circumstances. The
remainder were executed according to the sentence. Sia>-
teen were executed at San Angel, on the lOlh of Septem-
ber. Six of the whole number tried were deserters from
the 3d infantry, three from the 5lh infantry, four from the
7th infantry, two from the 2d infantry, Jive from the 3d ar-
tillery, six from the 4th artillery, one from the 1 at artillery,
and two from the 2d dragoons. General Scott, in examin*
ing the proceedings of the court, appears to have released
every man from the penalty of death, in whose favor any
reason or mitigation could be pleaded. Among the three
whom he found were not legally subject to the penalty of
death, because they had deserted previous tolhe commence-
ment of the war, was the notorious Riley, the commander
of the deserters' company. His sentence was commuted,
so that he was lashed and branded. The lesson given by '
this terrible execution was undoubtedly a severe one, but
one which war necessarily carries wi'Ji it, and without
which the discipline of the army could not be maintained.
On the 7th September, Scolt, having determined to
carry the city of Mexico, by assault, accompanied by Gen-
eral Worth, made a reconnaissance of the formidable de-
fences of the enemy immediately in front of Tacubaya,
and commanding the principal causeway and the aqueduct
supplying the city with water. This observation deter-
mined ihe general -in-chief to attack what may be called
the defences of Chapnitepec. These were several, col-
laterally supporting one anotlier, and constituting on the
whole a very auong point d'appui and support for the
y3
282 DESCRIPTION OP CHAPULTEPfiC.
Mexican army ; the larger part (if not the whole) was
now assembled at this point. We must now take a view
of these defences to understand the actions which ensued.
Early on the same morning, Captain Mason of the engi-
neers made a close and daring reconnaissance of the ene-
my's line, round and on Chapultepec. The results of
tliis investigation may be thus stated :
The little village of Tacubaya, at which General
Scott*s headquarters had been now established nearly
tlircc weeks, is about two miles and a half from the cily
of Mexico. About twelve hundred yards north of it^
just jminf-hlank range for twelve-pounders, is the hill
and foriifiod buildings of Chapultepec. At this point,
the causoway bnijuhes off to the east, being about two
miles in leiiiiih to the city. The Tacubaya road passed
on till, in two miles more, it entered the San Cosme
causewav. These causeways are the avenues to the
city ; aiui bombs and cannon of heavy calibre, placed on
the hill of Chapultepec, could command them, and the
city itself. The knowledge of this fact informs us, at
once, why General Scott deemed it necessary to possess
tliis castle, in order to take the city. Once possessed,
the citv nuist fall of course. Without it, the avenues
to the cily, and the city itself, would be exposed to the
bombardment of the enemy's batteries.
Let us now examine in detail, the particular points of
the defence.
Chapultepec. is a porphyritic rock, called in the Aztec
language, "Grasshopper's Hill." It rose from the former
margin of the lake — was the resort of the Aztec princes,
and is the real site of the mucli^sought Halls of tli<.'
Montezumas. Here are the remains of gardens, groves,
DBSCRIPTION OF CHAPULTEPSC. 283 .
and grottoes — the lingering remnants of that magnificence
which adorned the ancient city of Mexico. Here also,
the Spanish viceroys selected their residence, as the
most beautiful spot in the valley of Mexico. And here
was now placed the Military college. The cadets of the
institution Were now among its defenders. The build
ings on the top were well fortified, and the base of the
hill was nearly surrounded by a thick stone-wall. On
the north, east, and south, this hill was abrupt and
stony. On the west only (from the city) it seemed to
pennit any approach. On ihis side, down the slope, was
a heavy forest. On this side, the American commander
determined to assault it ; but here also, were formidable
defences.
El Molino del Rey is just at the foot of this hill-
slope — adjoins the grove of trees, and is a stone building
of thick and high walls, with towers at the end. This
was strongly garrisoned, and made a sort of depot, and
was supposed to have been used as a foundry recently,
though really built for mills, and called, " the King's Mill.'*"
Casa be Mata is another massive, thick- walled stone
building, standing about four hundred yards to the west
of Molino del Rey, and in a straight line with that
and the castle of Chapultepec. It is also at the foot
of a gentle declivity or ridge, descending from the village
of Tacubaya.
It follows then, from this topographical survey, that
Chapultepec is a position commanding all the roads
around, and that this position can be approached only on
one side, on which is a grove of trees ; and that at the
foot of this slope, lie Molino del Rey and Casa de Mata,
well defended, so that the first attack must necessarily
pwrEfFTioy or chafti;
be made on M?!::^:- de: Rer. or Chapoliepec could nof
be taken ; aod if asc lake::. 'Jiere was no safe passage
to the citT. The tirsi irir.g :o be done then, was the
stonning of M oiino del Rej.
Accordingly, afier :be reconnaissance of the 7th, Gren-
era! Scon ordered General Worth with the 1st diTision,
reinforced by Cadwal!ader*< brigade, and a detachment
of dragoons and artillery. \o attack and cany the lines
and defences of the enemy at the foot of the hill ;
capture Molino del Rey ; destroy the supposed materiel
there ; and then withdraw again to the Tillage of Ta-
cubava.*
The position of the enemy was well selected to de-
fend the naturally strong grounds they had assumed. His
icft rested upon and occupied the stone building, Molino
del Rey ; his right, in the same manner, rested upon the
stone building called Casa de Mata. Midway between
these was his field-battery, and on each side of it was his
lines of infantry.* The Mexican account of the position
of their army does not differ essentially from that given
by our officers. It states, that the left wing of their army
rested on Molino del Rey, close to the forest of Chapul-
tepee ; that this point was commanded by General Leon,
who had the battalion of Mina, and the battalions of
Union and La Palria of Oaxaca, the companies of Puebla,
and a body from Querctaro, all composed of National
Guards. The right wing rested on the Casa de Mala, and
was composed of the brigade of General Perez, fifteen
' Official Despatch of General Worth, dated Sopt lOlh, 1847.
• General Worth'n Rcjiort.
ATTACK ON MOUNO DEL RBT. ' 285
hundred of the regular army.' Independent of these
strongly-garrisoned fortresses, the Mexican army, to the
number of at least ten thousand men, under the command
of Santa Anna, were posted as above described, in a line
with a field-battery between posts. The corps ordered
by General Scott to the attack of this line was composed
as follows :
1st division, (General Worth,) . . about 2,000
Cadwallader's brigade, (lllh, 14th, and VoUigeurs) 784
Three squadrons of dragoons and company of
mounted riflemen, under Major Sumner, . . 270
Drum's battery, (three field-pieces,)
Huger's battery, (two 24-pounder8,)
100
Total corps of General Worth,* . men 3,154
It must be recollected, however, that when this arrange-
ment was made, no one in the American army knew the
real straogth of the fortified posts occupied by the Mexi-
can army. Worth made the most judicious arrangements
for the attack. The object in view was to break up, 1 st,
the enemy's lines of intrenchments, and, 2dly, to destroy
the munitions in Molino del Rey, after which the troops
were to retire. Those defences being completely under
the guns of the castle of Chapultepec, it may be assumed
that the commanding-general deemed it unnecessary to
retain the troops' in that exposed situation, when the ob-
' Extract from the Boletin, Mexican newspaper.
* General Worth'a Report
ATTACK 05 MOUSO DSL KXT.
ject for which they had gone there hid been accom*
plished.
Worth dirkled his corps into three columns, with a
leserre, to act respectirely against the wings and centre
of the enemy- Isi. The right column (ojqxMite the en-
emy's left, Molino del Rey) was composed of Garland*8
brigade, to look at and in time attack El Molino. This
column was accompanied by Captain Drum, and two
pieces of artillery. To atuck with this column, and thus
keep in check Chapultepec and its defences, Captain
Huger's battery of 24-i>ounders was placed on the ridge
descending from Tacubaya, and at about six hundred
yards from EI Molino. 2d. A storming party of five
hundred picked men was placed to the left of this bat-
tery, under the command of Major Wright of the 8th
infantry, to assail the enemy^s centre, and capture his
field-battery. 3d. The second brigade (now under the
command of Colonel M*Intosh) was placed higher up the
ridge, accompanied by Duncan's battery, to watch the'
enemy's left, support Major Wright, or assail, as circum-
stances might require. Cadwallader's brigade was held
in reserve, in a position between the last column (M'ln
tosh's) and the battering guns, that they might support
either column, as they might need. Sumner's dragoons
were on the extreme left, guarding that flank. Such
were the dispositions made by Worth* on the night of the
7lh of September. At 3 o'clock on the morning of the
8th, the columns were put in motion, and at daylight they
were all in their respective positions. At half-past 4
,A. II., when things could be distinctly seen, the battle
> See Worth*! Official Report.
\\
A.TTACK ON MOLINO DEL RBT. 287
began by the firing of Huger's battery (24-pounders) on
Molino del Rey, which continued till that strong point
was sensibly shaken.^ At this time, the storming party
under Major Wright rushed forward, under the guidance
of Captain Jtfason of the engineers, and Lieut. Foster.
They were received unexpectedly with a tremendous
fire of artillery. They still dashed on, drove the artillery-
men from their pieces, and had actually taken the bat-
tery, when the enemy, perceiving how small was the body
of men by whom he was dispossessed, re-rallied, and the
infantry of their whole line poured in a destructive fire.
Here no less than eleven out of only fourteen officers were
either killed or wounded ! The column was driven back
for a moment, and the Mexican troops regained possession
of the disputed point. They are said to have killed
nearly all the wounded left on the field.' The light bat-
talion left to cover Huger's battery, and the right wing
of Cadwallader's brigade, under Captain Kirby Smith,
were now ordered forward. They came gallantly into ac-
tion. The enemy's line was defeated. The contested
point ms carried, and the two wings of the enemy, Mo-
lino del Rey and Casa de Mata, were left isolated.
On our right the battle raged with equal fury and with
equal /success. Garland's brigade, sustained by Drum's
artillery, assaulted the left of the enemy at Molino del
Rey, and after a hot conflict drove him from that appa-
rently impregnable position under the guns of Chapulte-
pec. On the left of our army, at Casa de Mata, iinother
fearful and bloody action was maintained. The brigade
' General Worth'i Official Report.
* Letter fhnn an officer in the New York Courier and Enquirer
288 ATTACK ON MOLINO DEL RET,
of Colonel M^Intosli moved on, till by coming in front of
Duncairs bait cry, that was for a time silent, and the ad-
vancing column assaulted Casa de Mata. Again the en-
emy's defences proved stronger than had been anticipated.
Instead of field intrenchments, or an old house, it was a
strong stone citadel, with bastions and ditches. Within
musket range, a deadly fire of musketry was opened upon
tin* advancing column. Still the column rushed on till it
rrac-hod the very verge of the parapet ! Again did the
liiToos of Mexico fall within sight of victory. M'Intosh,
S(»()ti, Waite, had now fallen, and the column fell back to
I In* loft of Duncan's battery, again to rally, and again to
cliargo. Just as this attack was made, a heavy column
1)1* ravalrv and infantry was seen defiling round the ene-
my's right uf)on our extreme left. Thousands of the
Mt'xiran lancers in bright uniform now came to crush
:ippar(Miily tiie small band who were storming Casa de
^'ata. Tlion it was that Duncan's battery, silent by tlie
ill! Imposition of our storming column, moved rapidly to
the extroinc left, supported by the Voltigeurs, under Col-
onel Andrews. As the Mexican column came within range
o\' raiiister-shol, the battery opened an effective fire,
which soon scattered its columns. At the same moment,
iMajor Sumner's cavalry, formed on the left, charged and
(•omj)leto(l the rout. The retreat of our assaulting in-
fantry iiad a^ain opened Casa de Mata to the fire of our
artillery. It was o})oned uj)on it. The Mexican infantry
was already tlefcaled. Tiieir cavalry was already in
flight. A few shots more from our artillery, and Casa de
Mata was ahamloiK^l. All was now done that was al-
len»])lcd. Moliuo del Key was taken, ('asa de Mala
was taken. Fourteen lliousand of the M<*\icMn army,
• •,
• • •
■ • •• •
• • •.
► • *
CA8A DE MATA DESTROTXD. 389
thus Strongly posted, had been defeated by one-fourth
tlieir numbers. Fifty-two commissioned officers and eight
handred prisoners were captured. Great quantities of
arms and ammunition were also taken.
Casa de Mata was blown up, and the ammunition and
other materiel of war found in Molino del Rey destroyed.
When this was accomplished, these places were evacu-
ated by the orders of the commander-in-chief. It is evi-
dent to all intelligent minds that they could not be held
unless Chapultepec had also been carried ; for that, the
corps under Worth were inadequate, and were not de-
tached for that purpose. The testimony of Heneral
Word), furnished in his official report, proves that after
the most accurate and daring reconnaissance on the part
of the engineers, and also by general officers, the impres-
sioD was left on the minds of all those officers, that the
defences of Molino del Rey, and especially of Casa de
Mata, were less strong than they really proved to be.
They were thought likewise to be more important and
valuable to the Mexican army than tiiey really were, as
depositories of munitions. General Scolt, therefore, had
detached an ample force to carry outposts of such a kind
as were anticipated, but insufficient to carry, without too
much loss, the caatle of Chapultepec. The movement
was necessary, however, for another and a diifcrent reason
from those which have been given. Chapultepec must
be carried. To do this, the destruction of the defence!'
at the foot of the hill, and covering the Mexican army,
was essential to success. The strength of those defences,
nnknown and impossible to know, was the only cause of
the extraordinary loss, which rendered this proportionablj
the bloodiest battle of the war. One-fourlh of Worth's
z l^
290 RBFLECTI0N8 ON THE BATTLB.
entire force were either killed or wounded ! Nor were
the Mexicans less sorely injured. Desperately did they
fight. Leon, their bravest general; Balderez, the gal-
lant colonel of the battalion of Mina ; Huerta, Moteos,
and other distinguished officers, were lost on that fatal
field.
Such was the battle of Molino del Ret ; long to be
remembered as the scene of extraordinary actions, and
long grieved, as that which made the graves of brave and
noble men.
On the afternoon of the 8lh, the corps of Worth, hav-
ing accomplished the purpose of the battle, retired to
Tacubaya, and the commander-in-cliief directed his in-
quiries to the defences of Mexico and the modes of over-
coming them. On the 9th and 10th, reconnaissances
were made in every practicable direction, especially by
the engineers Lee, Beauregard, Stevens, and Tower, and
also by the commander-in-chief. These reconnaissances
were especially directed to the south and west. Tlie San
Antonia road (on which lay Antonia and Churubusco)
came in on the south. This is the road, the reader will
recollect, by which the army had advanced till after the
battle of Churubusco. Then it diverged to the north-
west, through Coyhoacan, San Angel, and Tacubaya.
This road was, in fact, the great Acapulco road, passing
southwest from the city of Mexico to the Pacific ocean,
and which the army had reached by its bold and success-
ful march round the Lake Chalco. The general-in-chief
and engineer now sought, whether by this or any other
route, they could most successfully approach and enter
the city. The observations disclosed these facts, that
there were 1^/, Five great roads leading to the city of
DSSCRIPTION OF MEXICO AND ITS DBFENCE8. 291
Mexico, viz. :* the road to Vera Cruz, which the army
had followed to Ayotla ; the road to Acapulco, by which
it advanced to Antonia and Churubusco ; the road to To-
luca, on which it now was, at Tacubaya ; the road to
Guadalupe, by which Santa Anna finally retreated ; and
the road to Tampico, which went northeast round Lake
Tezcuco. 2df These roads terminated in eight gates.
Three of these gates were approached by causeways from
the Acapulco road, viz. : the San Antonia, Perdido, and
Piedad ; two by the Toluca road, by Tacubaya, viz. :
Chapultepec and San Cosme. Each of the other three
roads had a gate also. These gateways were small forts
mounting cannon,, which, in time of peace, were used as
a sort of custom-houses, the city being unapproachable
from any other quarter than these causeways. They were
now converted into a sort of bastions for the city, or en-
filading forts. Around the greater part of the city, es-
pecially where these great roads approached, there was a
great ditch, or canal, which it was almost impossible to
bridge in face of the enemy's cannon and small-arms.
Let the reader now conceive the city and defences of
Mexico, as we have described their features. A large,
regular, soUd-built city, at the very bottom of a large, ob-
long valley, surrounded by a lofty range of mountains.
These mountains turn the water into the valley below,
forming great lakes, occupying no small part of the
entire surface of the valley. The city is partially
drained firom these inundating waters; but only par-
tially so. Much the greatest part of the land between
these lakes is, in the rainy season, a marsh, too wet and
' fltealey*! map of the enriroiM of Moddooi
t92 DsscKipnoN OP thi comrrmT.
boggy for wagons, or hones, or an army to pass. Over
these bogs and wet grounds the great causeways are cut,
and over them only can the city be approached. The
entrances of these causeways are defended by the has-
tioned gateways : and finally, around the city is a canal,
or ditch. It was now the wet season, and the ground
was marshy and the lakes high. Such was the series of
obstacles, natural and artificial, which, on the 9th of Sep
tember, presented themselves to the experienced eye of
Creneral Scott. He saw himself with a small army, re
duced by bloody battles and severe sickness, in the heart
of the valley of Mexico. In front, a city of two hundred
thousand inhabitants, an army of twenty-five thousand
men, and defences, which in other hands would seem im-
pregnable ; and finally, with the line of his communica-
tion, connecting the army with the base of its supply, cut
ofi' ! This position was one, which can only be equalled
in military history by the conquest of Egypt by Bonaparte,
when his retreat was cut ofi" by the English victory of
Aboukir Bay. The difierence is, that Napoleon was
foiled, but the American general was not. Mexico had no
St. Jean d'Acre for the general who had conquered at
Niagara, at San d'UIloa, at Cerro Gordo, and Churu-
busco ! He marched on, and marched victoriously
through all the obstacles of nature and of art !
On the 11th of September, Scott had completed all his
leconnaissances, made his arrangements, and now had
determined on the final assault. The general determined
to attack the western, or southwestern gates, by the Cha-
pultepec causeway : but, to deceive the enemy, and econo-
mize our own soldiers, he arranged a masked movement
against the southern gates, while the real one was on the
ATTACK ON THB CITT. 298
Other side. The point of attack was Chapultepec The
mask movement was made by the diviaionB of QuiUnaa
and Pillow, in daylight, on t)ie Ilth, marching tmm Coy-
hoacan to mamsuTre and make false atucks on the San
Antonia road, before the gates of the south side. In ^e
same manner Twiggs, with Riley's brigade, and Taylor's
and Steptoe's batteries, was left in front of the same gates
to threaten and act according to circumstances. The for-
mer divisions (Pillow's and Quitman's) were to return by
night to Tacubaya, white Twiggs still remained on the
•outhem front ; Smith's brigade was posted at Sui Angel ;
Worth's division remained with the general-iu-chief, at
Tacubaya. This was the position of the several corpt
on the afternoon of the 11th.' That night, the divisions
of Pillow and Quitman moved up to Tacubaya, according
to the orders of the general-in-chief, previously given;
Twiggs, with his brigade and batteries alone remaining
to keep up the appearance of attack on the south side.
All things were now ready for the full development oi
the assault The point ^appui for the enemy was the
Castle of Chapultepec, and constituted the point of attack
for the American army — commanding with its cannon,
the Chapultepec and San Cosmo causeways. We have
already described the hill of Chapultepec, a steep, blufl^
rocky height, rising one hundred and fifty feet above the
surrounding grounds, and defended by a strong castle of
thick stone walls. The whole fortress or work of defence,
< is about nine hundred feet in length ; and the terre-plein
and main buildings, about six hundred feet.
The following account is given by an officer of the anay
* 8B«tl^ Offiekl Btpvt, dated 8gi>L 18th, 184T, No. S4
z2 -^ '
894 DsscRirnoN of chapultepxc.
''The Castle is about ten feet high, and the whole
itnicture, including the wings, bastions, parapets, re-
doubts, and batteries, is very strongly built, and of the
most splendid architecture. A splendid dome decorates
the top, nsing in great majesty about twenty feet abore
the whole truly grand and magnificent pile, and near
which is the front centre, supported by a stone arch,
upon which is painted the coat-of-arms of the republic,
where once floated the tri-colored banner, but is now
decorated by the glorious stars and stripes of our own
happy land. Two very strongly-built stone walls sur-
round the whole ; and at the west eud, where we storm-
ed the works, the outer walls are some ten feet apart,
and twelve or fifteen feet high, over which we charged
by the help of fascines. It was defended by heavy ar-
tillery, manned by the most learned and skilful gunners
of their army, including some French artillerists of dis-
tinction. The infantry force consisted of the officers
and students of the institution, and the national guards,
and chosen men of war of the republic — the whole under
the command of General Bravo, whom we made prisoner.
The whole hill is spotted with forts and outposts, and
stone and mud walls, which were filled with their picket
or castle guard. A huge high stone-wall extends around
the whole frowning craggy mount, and another along the
soutiicast base, midway from the former and the castle.
A well-paved road leads up in a triangular form to the
main gate, entering the south terre-plein ; and the whole
works arc ingeniously and beautifully ornamented with
Spanish fastidiousness and skill."^
* Letter of Lieut Sotten, of the ]5(h Infantry, m the Vniom.
ATTACK ON CHAPULTSPSC. 9M
This was now to be assaulted — and the next step was,
on the night of the 11th, the erection of batteries which
would command the fortress. The ground for these
was traced out by Captains Huger and Lee, and they
were thus placed :
Battery No. 1, mounted two eighteen-pounders, and
one eight-inch mortar, and was commanded by Captahk
Drum. This battery was about six hundred yards from
the castle, just to the left of the Tacubaya road.
Battery No. 2, mounted one twenty-four pounder, and
one eight-inch mortar, and was commanded by Captain
Hagner, of the Ordnance. This battery was placed to
the front and to the left of Tacubaya, a little further from
the castle.
Battery No. 3, mounted one eigh teen-pounder, and one
eight-inch mortar. This was placed half way between
Tacubaya and Molino del Rey, and was commanded by
Captain Brooks and Lieutenant Anderson, of the 2d ar-
tillery, alternately.
Battery No. 4, was placed near Molino del Rey — was
commanded by Lieutenant Stone, of the Ordnance, and
mounted one large mortar.
The object of these batteries was to cripple the de-
fences of the castle, preparatory to an assault. Ac-
cordingly, the next morning, (the 12th,) these batteries
being in position, commenced firing at daylight. The
air was filled with blazing fuzes and whirling balls.
Every ball went through the building, and every shell
tore up the ramparts — while from the bastions and bat-
teries of Chapultepec, the enemy rained down an in-
cessant fire upon the assailants below. Such was the
worl^of the 12lh— closed only when daylight disap-
S06 tTORKlNG or THB CAMTIM.
pearedy and left the troops to darkness and to a short
repose.
The divisions of Pillow and Quitman were in posi
tion on the night of the llth, waiting for orders. Twiggs
was still firing away at the southern gates, to divert and
deceive the enemy. On the afternoon of the 12th,
Smith's brigade (stationed at San Angel) was moved up
to Piedad, a small village two miles from Chapultepec.
General Scott had appointed the momentary cessation of
fire from our batteries, as a signal of assault. This was
to take place in two columns, commanded respectively
by Generals Quitman and Pillow, each preceded by a
storming party of two hundred and fifty select men ; 'and
the whole supported by Worth's division in reserve.
The storming party for Pillow, was furnished from Worth's
division, and commanded by Captain McKenzie, of the
2d artillery. The storming party of Quitman's colunm
was furnished by Twiggs' division, and commanded by
Captain Casey, of the 2d infantry.
At 8 A. M., on the morning of the 13th, the general*in
chief sent word, by his aids, to Pillow and Quitman, that
the concerted signal was about to be given.^ The bri-
gade of General Smith had left Piedad, at 6 a. m., and
was now arrived on the ground. It was to act with the
column of Quitman. The column of Pillow was to ad-
vance on the west side, that of Quitman on the southeast.
The reserve under Worth was to turn the castle, and
cqme into the road on the north, there either to assist in
the assault or cut off tlie retreat of the enemy.
This entire plan was successfully carried out. Both
^ General Scott's Official Report
STORMING OF THE CA8TLB. 297
columns charged with alacrity at 9 a. m. of the 13th
Pillow advanced through an open grove on the west, filled
with sharpshooters. These were speedily dislodged, and
the column emerged into an opening at the foot of the rocky
acclivity. Here General Pillow was wounded, and the
command devolved on General Cadwallader.^ The bro-
ken acchvity was still to be ascended, aAd a redoubt hall-
way up to be carried. Bravely led by gallant officers,
bravely did the men advance. Slowly, but surely
did they advance; step by step the ground is gained.
Now the first battery is taken ! Now the soldiers march
over mines !' Now the match is lighted to fire them '
The man is shot down, and the assailants are safe, from
all but this terrible shower of balls ! Now they reach
the ditch, and the stone wall is beyond. The fas-
cines^ are applied — ^the ditch is bridged. The scaling
ladders are applied to that massive wall, and they mount !
they mount ! The castle is carried, and now the flags of
these brave regiments fly on its ramparts! The loud
hurrah resounds through the ranks !
But what is doing by the column of the brave Quit-
man ? Have they no part ? As bravely, and as actively,
and successfully did they storm the rock-built castle of
Chapultepec.
> Officiml Report
* G«iieral Scott, in his Official Report, layB that men in attempting to
6re the mines were ihot down. General Bravo, who commanded, saya
tfiat the engineer who had charge of them disappeared, and they could
tot he fired. Both statements are no donht trae.
* Fasoines are handles of withes, or sticks, tied round and filled up with
•arth, to fill up ditofae*.
996 STORMING or THE CASTLS.
HoTing over a causeway from Tacubaya, flanked on
either side by deep ditches, and cut in several places,
Quitman had little room to manoeuvre, while in front was
a strong body of the enemy, and two or three small pieces.
All these obstacles were overcome, the enemy routed, and
the volunteers of Quitman, of New York, of Pennsylva-
nia, and of South Carolina, arrived in time to join the
storming parties, as they scaled the walls of Chapultepec
Here, too, the " Rifles," so often distinguished, joined the
assault, and shared in the bloodiest adventures of the
day. An officer of that gallant corps thus describes the
scene:
" After about an hour's hard firing, the enemy's fire be-
gan to slacken, and the word was given to charge. We
rushed forward, and in three minutes we carried the
first battery. The rifles entered the battery with the
storming party, which was commanded by one of its cap-
tains. We followed the fugitives close up to the aqife-
duct, and, turning to the left, clambered up the steep path
to the castle. The enemy were running down in crowds,
and the slaughter was tremendous in the road and orchard.
Our men were infuriated by the conduct of the Mexicans
at Molino del Rey, and took but few prisoners. The
castle was completely torn to pieces ; nearly every part
was riddled by our shot, while the pavements and fortifi-
cations were completely torn up by the shells. In it
were crowds of prisoners of every rank and color ; among
whom were fifty general officers, and about a hundred
cadets of the Mexican military academy. The latter
were pretty little fellows, from ten to sixteen years
of age. Several of them were killed fighting like de-
mons, ~ and indeed they showed an example of cour-
CHAPULTEPEC TAKEN. 299
age worthy of imitation by some of their superiors in
rank."*
Thus was Chapultepec taken. Its rocky heights — its
strong batteries — its military college — its mines — its suc-
coring army — ^were all in vain. The heroes who had
stormed the hill of Contreras, the intrenchments of Chu-
rubusco, and the King's Mill, failed not here. Chapul-
tepec is taken, and the great causeways to Mexico are no
longer defended by fortresses. The gates alone remain.
Just at this time the general-in-chief arrived at the
castle, and took a coup (Tail view of the whole field, as it
lay around the city of Mexico. His determination was
instantly taken. On the right, the road passed on to the
Belen gate ; on the left, it passed to the San Cosmo
causeway and gate. Worth had turned the castle during
the conflict, passed round to the north centre of Chapul-
tepec, and there attacked the right wing of the Mexican
army on the road. Now he had already pursued the ene-
my, and was marching on the San Cosmo road. Quitman
on the other hand was pursuing the enemy by the cause-
way to the Belen gate. Scott knew that the San Cosmo
gate was easier taken than the Belen, and therefore or-
dered Cadwallader's brigade and other forces up to Worth,
intending his to be the main attack. He garrisoned Cha-
pultepec with the 15th regiment of infantry, and after
sending guns and ammunition to both Worth and Quit-
man, and taking care of the ordnance and prisoners, he fol-
lowed Worth's division on the San Cosmo road. This
corps soon come to a suburb, just in front of the gate of
San Cosmo, and there found the enemy again prepared
* Letter in the New York Courier and Enqoirer.
800 ATTACK ON TIIS CITY.
for battle, behind ditches, and on the flat roofs of houses,
making the village a fortification, and defending it inch by
inch. The pioneers, with picks and crowbars, soon made
their way through windows and houses, burrowing their
way. The mountain howitzers began to play, and by 8 p. m .
the positions were carried, and Worth quietly rested his
troops in the suburbs of Mexico. A single gate, unable
to make successful resistance now, alone raised its feeble
barrier between the northman and the now humbled con
querors of the Aztecs.
On the other causeway the scene was yet more remark-
able. Quitman, reinforced with Smith's brigade, in the
ardor of pursuit had carried an intermediate battery, and
actually entered the Belen gate, after a hard battle. The
capture of the Belen gate is thus described by an officer
of the " Rifles."
" Again we commenced our slow and deadly march, as
we gradually approached the garita^ or gate of the city,
the enemy retreating slowly before us. As soon as they
crossed the gate a tremendous fire of artillery opened
upon us on both sides of the aqueduct as well as from
two flanking batteries on both sides the road. Here our
loss was very great. Slowly creeping from arch to arch,
we lost many men by the batteries in front, while the fire
from flanking batteries coming through the arches killed
many who were safe from that in front. About noon we
got close up to the garita, and the enemy's fire being
partly silenced by our artillery in the road, and thus being
driven out of the cross-battery on the left, we once more
gave the rifle yell, and charged the garita. Again we
were first, and at twenty minutes past one, of the 13th of
September^ the regiment entered the city of Mexico.
CITY ENTERED. 301
But our work was not yet ended. Directly .in front was
still another battery, with flanking batteries as before.
Our regiment again went forward, and assisted by some
others we occupied a house and some of the arches, and
not only kept them off, but repelled four attempts at
charges which they made. Meanwhile we had construct-
ed a battery of sand-bags at the garita^ and kept up a
sharp fire in front. Towards dark those in front were
recalled, and all retired behind the batteries. That night
the battery was completed, and the men slept on their
arms in the arches of the aqueduct."^
Thus closed the 13th of September in the valley of
Mexico. The morning had found the armies of the North
and the South in a yet undecided position. It is true that
victory had constantly granted her favors to the army of
Scott ; but that army was small, and the columns of the
enemy were numerous, and his defences strong. Cha-
pultepec looked down from almost impregnable heights.
The rays of the risen sun glanced from the plumes and
swords and guns of twenty thousand men. Mexico poured
out her throng to defend her gates and walls, and ditches
and causeways raised their obstacles and embarrassments
in the way of the American general. Night had now
come, and all these arms, and fortresses, and soldiers, and
obstacles had disappeared, as if charmed away by the
magician's wand, before the triumphant energy of the
nortliern soldier. The flag of the republic of the North
waved in the evening breeze from the rock-built castle of
Chapultepec, and now as the clouds of night gather in
darkness round its summit, some famished dog may find
' Letter in the New York Courier and Enqnirer.
44
t
802 CITT A8K8 FOR TKRMS.
his meal on the cold flesh of its brave but unfortunate
defenders. The clouds wiU break away, and the stars
beam out upon that lonely hill; but from those cold
bodies no cloud will break, no stars beam out on earth
for the loved hearts who wait and watch for them.* The
victor rushes on ! Batteries are taken, causeways passed,
and his cannon thunder and batter at the gates of Mexico.
Night has found him too, and the sentinel alone keeps
watch round the wearied soldier of America, who sinks
to rest with his garments yet rolled in blood. Neither
the glorious drama of such a day, the grandeur of such a
scene, nor the strange novelty of such events, can repel
the weariness of fatigue, or prevent the necessity of re-
pose. He sinks to rest as softly and calmly as the inno-
cent child, and welcomes to his aching limbs and drowsy
eyes,
** 'Rred Nature'i sweet restorer, balmy sleep."
Daylight of the 1 4th of September had scarcely arrived,
when the Ayuntamiento (city council) of Mexico waited
upon General Scott, informed liim that both the Mexican
government and army had marched out of the city some
hours before, and demanded terms of capitulation.* The
general replied that the city was virtually in his power
the night previous, and that the American army would
come under no terms not self-imposed. About daylight
he gave his orders to Worth and Quitman to advance and
occupy the city. The corps of Quitman rushed forward.
* Intercepted Mexican letten show that many of the Mexican officen
were anxiously awaited by sisterB, wives, and moCberik
* ScoU*s Official Despatch.
OBN. SCOTT ENTERS THE GRAND PLAZA. 808
and soon the colors of its regiments were planted on the
far-famed palace of Mexico. Worth's division had been
delayed at the Alameda ; that the men who had entered
the Belen gate the night before, might be first in the
grand plaza< At 7 a. m., on the 14th of September,
1847, the flag of the American Union was hoisted on the
walls of the national palace in the city of Mexico. Soon
after this event, at 9 a. m., a *' tremendous hurrah broke
from the comer of the plaza, and in a few minutes were
seen the towering plumes and commanding form of our
gallant old hero. General Scott, escorted by the 2d
dragoons. The heartfelt welcome that came from our
little band was such as Montezumas' Halls had never
heard, and must have deeply affected the general.**^
Soon after this a firing was heard, and it appeared that
the LeperoSf or mob of the city, with some liberated con-
victs, had made an insurrection. A fire was opened on
our men from the flat roofs of houses, from windows and
corners of streets, by the vagabonds of the city, liberated
convicts, and disbanded soldiers. This was not put down
till twenty-four hours had passed, and till many were
killed and wounded. The object was as much plunder,
as hatred.*
We insert here the official report of the commander-
in-chiefy General Scott.
' Letter of an officer of the Riflei.
' Scott'i Offici&l Report
804 OFFICIAL DB8PATCH OFOKN. SCOTT.
Headquaktiri or thi Amur. ^
Natioiial Palace of Mozieo, Sept 18, 1847. f
Sir : — ^At the end of another series of arduous and brilliaiit
operations of more than forty-eight hours' continuance, this
glorious army hoisted, on the morning of the 14th, the colors
of the United States on the walls of this palace.
The victory of the 8th, at the Molino del Bey, was fol-
lowed by daring reconnoissances on the part of our distin-
gmshed engineers — Capt. Lee, Lieuts. Beaurq^ard, SteveDs,
and Tower, — ^Major Smith, senior, being sick, and Capt.
Mason, third in rank, wounded. Th^ operations were di-
rected principally to the south — ^towards the g^tes of the
Piedad, San Angel, (Nino Perdido,) San Antonio, and the
Paseo de la Viga.
This city stands on a slight swell of ground, near the
centre of an irregular basin, and is girdled with a ditch in its
greater extent — a navigable canal of great breadth and depth
— very difficult to bridge in the presence of an enemy, and
serving at once for drainage, custom-house purposes, and mili-
tary defence ; leaving eight entrances or gates, over arches-^
each of which we found defended by a system of strong
works, that seemed to require nothing but some men and guns
to be impregnable.
Outside and within the cross-fires of those gates, we found
to the south other obstacles but little less formidable. AJl the
approaches near the city are over elevated causeways, cut in
many places (to oppose us), and flanked on both sides by
ditches, also of unusual dimensions. The numerous cross-
roads are flanked in like manner, having bridges at the inter-
sections, recently broken. The meadows thus checkered, are,
moreover, in many spots, under water or marshy ; for, it will
be remembered, we were in the midst of the wet season,
though with less rain than usual, and we could n^t wait for
OFFICIAL DESPATCH OF 6BN. 8C0TT. 805
t
the fall of the neighboring lakes and the consequent drainage
of the .wet grounds at the edge of the city — ^the lowest in the
whole basin.
After a close personal sunrey of the southern gates, covered
by Pillow's division and Riley's brigade of Twiggs'— with four
times our numbers concentrated in our immediate front — I de-
termined on the 11th to avoid thai net- work of obstacles, and
to seek, by a sudden diversion, to the southwest and west, lest
unfavorable approaches.
To economize the lives of our gallant officers and men, as
well as to ensure success, it became indispensable that this res-
olution should be long masked from the enemy ; and again,
that the new movement, when discovered, should be mistaken
for a feint, and the old as indicating our true and ultimate point
of attack.
Accordingly, on the spot, the 11th, I ordered Quitman's
division from Coyoacan, to join Pillow, by daylight, before th«
southern gates, and then that the two major-generals, with
their divisions, should, by night, proceed (two miles) to join
me at Tacubaya, where I was quartered with Worth's di-
vision. Twiggs, with Riley's brigade and Captains Taylor's
and Steptoe's field batteries — ^the latter of 12 -pounders — ^was
left in front of those gates, to manoeuvre^ to threaten, or to
make false attacks, in order to occupy and deceive the enemy.
Twiggs' other brigade (Smith's) was left at supporting dis-
tance, in the rear, at San Angel, till the morning of the 13th,
and also to support our general depot at Miscoac. The strata-
gem against the south was admirably executed throughout
the 12th and down to the afternoon of the 13th, when it was
too late for the enemy to recover from the effects of his
delusion.
The first step m the new movement was to carry Chapultepe«,
a natural and isolated mound, of great elevation, strongly for-
aa'2 20
306 OFnCUL DESPATCH OF OEN» aCOTT.
tified at its base, on its acclivities, and heights. Besides a
nnmelrous garrison, here was the military college of the re-
public, with a large number of sub-lieutenants and other stu-
dents. Those works were within direct gun-shot of the village
of Tacubaya, and, until carried, we could not approach the
city on the west, without making a circuit too wide and too
hazardous.
In the course of the same night (that oi the 11th) heavy
batteries, within easy ranges, were established. No. 1, on our
right, under the command of Capt Drum, 4th artillery, (re-
lieved late next day, for some hours, by Lieut. Andrews of the
3d,) and No. 2, commanded by Lieut. Hagner, ordnance —
both supported by Quitman's division. Nos. 3 and 4 on the
opposite side, supported by Pillow's division, were commanded,
the former by Capt. Brooks and Lieut. S. S. Anderson, 2d
artillery, alternately, and the latter by Lieut. Stone, ordnance.
The batteries were traced by Capt. Huger and Capt. Lee,
engineer, and constructed by them with the able assistance of
the young officers of those corps and the artillery.
To prepare for an assault, it was foifeeen that the play of
the batteries might run into the second day ; but recent cap-
tures had not only trebled our siege pieces, but also our
ammunition ; and we knew that we should greatly augment
both by carrying the place. I was, therefore, in no haste in
ordering an assault before the works were well crippled by
our missiles. »
The bombardment and cannonade, under the direction oi
Capt. Huger, were commenced early in the morning of Uie 12th.
Before nightfall, which necessarily stopped our batteries, we
had perceived that a good impression had been made on the
castle and its outworks, and that a large body of the enemy
had remained outside, towards the city, from an early hour to
avoid our fire, and to be at hand on its cessation, in order to
OrriCUL DEBPATCB Of OBN. SCOTT. 807
reinforce the garrison ogninst on oasanlt. The s&me outside
force was discovered the next monung, after our batteries had
reopened upon the castle, by which we again reduced its gar-
rison to the roinimnm needed for the guns.
Pillow and Quitman had been in poeition dnce early in the
mght of the 11th. Major-general Worth was now ordered to
hold his division in reserve, near the foundry, to support
Pillow ; and Brigadier-general Smith, of Twi^;s' division, had
just arrived with his brigade from Redad, (2 miles,) to sup-
port Quitman. Twiggs' guns, before the southern gates, again
reminded us, as the day before, that he, with Riley's brigade
and Taylor's and Steptoe's batteries, was in activity, threaten-
ing the BOuthem gates, and there holding a great part of the
Mexican army on the defenmve.
Worth's division furnished Pillow's attack with an assaulting
party of some 260 volunteer officers and men, nnder Capt
UcEenzie, of the 2d artillery ; and Twiggs' divi^on supplied
a similar one, comnlanded by Capt. Casey, 2d infantry, to
Quitman. Each of those little colomns' waa fnniished with
scaling ladders.
The signal I had appointed for the attack was the momen-
tary cessation of fire on the part of our heavy batteriea.
About 8 o'clock in the morning of the 13th, judging that the
time had arrived by the effect of the missiles we had thrown,
I sent an aid-de-camp to Pillow, and another to Quitman, with
notice that the concerted sigaal waa about to be given. Both
colnpns now advanced with an alacrity that gave assurance of
prompt euoceaa. The batteries, seizing opportuni^es, threw
shots and shells upon the enemy over the heads of our men,
with good efllect, particularly at every attempt to rdnforce the
woAi from without to meet onr assault.
Major-general Pillow's approach, on the west aide, lay
tbrongfa an open grore^ filled with aharp-ahootatt, who were
•08 omCIAL DESPATCH OP OBN. BCOIT.
ipeedOy dislodged ; when bdng up with the front of the at-
tack, and emerging into open space, at the foot of a rocky ao-
divity, that gallant leader was struck down by an agonising
wound. The immediate command devolved on Brigadier-
general Qadwallader, in the absence of the senior brigadier
(Pierce) of the same division— an invalid since the events of
August 19. On a previous call of Pillow, Worth had just
sent him a reinforcementr-^-Colonel Clarke's brigade.
The broken acclivity was still to be ascended, and a stnxig
redoubt, midway, to be carried, before reaching the castle on
the heights. The advance of our brave men, led by brave
officers, though necessarily slow, was unwavering, over rocks,
chasms, and mines, and under the hottest fire of cannon and
musketry. The redoubt now yielded to resbtless valor, and
the shouts that followed announced to the castle the fate that
impended. The enemy were steadily driven from shelter to
shelter. The retreat allowed not time to fire a single ^ine,
without the certainty of blowing up friend and foe. Those
who at a distance attempted to apply matches to the long
trains, were shot down by our men. There was death below,
as well as above ground. At length the ditch and wall of
the main work were reached ; the scaling ladders were
brought up and planted by the stonmng parties ; some of
tiie daring spirits first in the assault were cast down — ^killed
or wounded ; but a lodgment was soon made ; streams of
heroes followed ; all opposition was overcome, and several of
our regimental colors flung out from the upper walls, amidst
long-continued shouts and cheers, which sent dismay into
the capital. No scene could have been more animating or
glorious.
Major-general Quitman, nobly supported by Brigadier-
generals Shields and Smith, (P. F.,) his other officers and
men, was up with the part assigned him. Simultaneously with
OFFICIAL DESPATCH OF OSN. 8C0TT. 309
the moyement on the west, he had gallantly approached th«
southeast of the same works, over a causeway with cuts and
batteries, and defended by an army strongly posted outside»
to the east of the works. Those formidable obstacles Quit-
man had to face, with but little shelter for his troops or
space for manoeuvring. Deep ditches flanking the causeway,
made it difficult to cross on either side into the adjoinii^
meadows, and these again were intersected by other ditches.
Smith and his brigade had been early thrown out to make
a sweep to the right, in order to present a front against the
enemy's line, (outside,) and to turn two intervening batteries
near the foot of Chapultepec. This movement was also in-
tended to support Quitman's storming parties, both on the
causeway. The first of thes^ furnished by Twiggs' division*
was commanded in succession by Captain Casey, 2d infantry,
and Captain Paul, 7th infantry, after Casey had been severely
wounded ; and the second, originally under the gallant Major
Twiggs, marine corps, killed, and then Captain Miller, 2d
Pennsylvania volunteers. The storming party, ^w com*
manded by Captain Paul seconded by Captain Roberts, of
the rifles. Lieutenant Stewart, and others of the same regi-
ment, Smith's brigade, carried the two batteries in the road»
took some guns^ with many prisoners, and drove the enemy
posted behind in support. The New York and South Caro-
lina volunteers (Shields' brigade) and the 2d Pennsylvania
volunteers, all on the left of Quitman's line, together with
portions of his storming parties, crossed the meadows in front*
under a heavy fire, and entered the outer enclosure of Chapul-
tepec just in time to join in the final assault from the west.
Besides Major-generals Pillow and Quitman, Brigadier-
generals Shields, Smith, and Cadwallader, the following are
the officers and corps most distinguished in those brilliant
operations : The voltigeur regiment in two detachments* conn
810 OmCIAI. DESPATCH OP Q^N. tCOTT.
wmded rapectiTely by Colonel Andrews And Lientenaal-
oolonel Johnstone— the latter mostly in the lead, aocompsmed
hy Major Caldwell; Captains Barnard and Biddle, of the
same regiment— the former the first to plant a regimental
eolor, and the latter among the first in the assault; the
storming party of Worth's division, under Captain .McKeniie,
8d artillery, with Lieutenant Seldon, 8th infantry, early on
the ladder and badly wounded ; Lieutenant Armistead, 6th
infantry, the first to leap into the ditch to plant a ladder ;
Lieutenants Rodgers of the 4th, and J. P. Smith of the 5th
infantry— both mortally wounded; the 9th infantry, und^
Colonel Ransom, who was killed while gallantly leading that
galliint rogimont; the 15th infantry, under Lieutenant-colonel
Uowiird and Major Woods, with Captain Chase, whose com-
|uuiy gallantly carried the redoubt, midway up the acclivity ;
Colonel Clarke's brigade (Worth's division) consisting of the
5th. 8th, and part of the 6th regiments of infantry, com-
miuulod nvapectivdy by Captain Chapman, Major Mont-
gitniory, and Lieutenant Edward Johnson — the latter specially
notiotni, with Lieutenants Longstreet, (badly wounded, ad-
vancing, colors in hand,) Pickett, and Merchant, the last three
of the 8th infantry ; portions of the United States marines.
New York. South Carolina, and 2d Pennsylvania volunteers,
which, delayed with their division (Quitman's) by the hot en-
gagement below, arrived just in time to participate in the
assault of the heights — particularly a detachment under Lieu-
tenant Keid. New York volunteers, oonsisting of a company
of Uie same, with one of marines ; and another detachment,
a |H>rtion of the storming party, (Twigs' division, serving
with Quitman.) under Lieutenant Steele, 2d infantry, after
the fall of Lieuten.uit Ganit, 7th iufantnr.
In this eiHinivtiiva. it is hut just to recall the decisive effect
of the heavy batteries, Nos. 1, 2» S, and 4, commanded by
OFFICIAL DESPATCH OF G£N. SCOTT. 311
those excellent officers, Capttiin Dram, 4th artillery, assisted
by Lieutenants Benjamin and Porter of his own company;
Captain Brooks and Lieutenant Anderson, 2d artillery, as-
sisted by Lieutenant Russell, 4th infantry, a volunteer ; Lieu-
tenants Hagner and Stone of the ordnance, and Lieiitenant
Andrews,. 3d artillery ; the whole superintended by Captain
Huger, chief of ordnance with this army — an officer dis-
tinguished by erery kind of merit. The mountain howitfler
battery, under Lieutenant Reno, of the ordnance, deseryes»
also, to be particularly mentioned. Attached to the volti-
geurs, it followed the movements of that regiment, and again
won applause.
In adding to the list of individuals of conspicuous merit, I
must limit myself to a few of the many names which might
be enumerated: Captain Hooker, assistant adjutant-general,
who won special applause, successively, in the staff of Pillow
and Cadwallader ; lieutenant Lovell, 4th artillery, (wounded,)
chief of Quitman's staff; Captain Page, assistant adjutant-
general, (wounded,) and Lieutenant Hammond, SjlLartillery,
both of Shields' staff, and Lieutenant Van Dom, (7th in-
fantry,) aid-de-camp to Brigadier-general Smith.
Those operations all occurred on the west, southeast, and
heights of Chapultepec. To the north and at the base of the
mound, inaccessible on that side, the 11th infantry, under
Lieut. Col. Hebert, the 14th, under Col. Trou&dale, and Capt.
Magruder's field battery, 1st artillery — one section advanced
under Lieut. Jackson — all of Pillow's division — ^had, at the
same time, some spirited affisdrs against superior numbers,
driving the enemy from a battery in the road, and capturing a
gun. In these, the officers and corps named gained merited
praise. Colonel Trousdale, the commander, though twice
wounded, continued on duty imtil the heights were carried.
Early in the morning of the 13th, I repeated the orders of
tn OmOAL BSBTATCa OT
tfe 1^1 bdoie to Mafor-gCMnl WoAw to be^ witli bk
^mafm at kuid» to mpport'tke mawmmm^ of IfAJor-genenl
PiDov from oar left Hie Itttcr aeeBi aooa to haTe eoUed
for that entire dmBon, ifiifag ■omentariij in resenr^ and
Worth lent him C<^ Ckrke't hr^ade. The caO, if not m-
necemarj, wai at \ctmt, from the drrainn a n cci» uiknown to me
at the time ; for, loon obaenring that the rtrj large bod j of
the cnem J, in the road in front of Ifajor-general Quitman's
light, was receinng reinforcements from the eitj — lem than a
anle and a half to the east — ^I sent instraetions to Worth, on
o«r opposite flank, to torn Chapnltepec with his division, and
to proceed, eaatiooslr, by the road at its northern base, in
order, if not met by very superior numbers, to threaten or to
attack, in rear, that body of the enemy. The movement, it
was also believed, could not fail to distract and to intimidate
the enemy generally.
Worth promptly advanced with his remaloing brigade —
Colonel Garland's — ^Lieut. Col. C. F. Smith's light battalion,
Lieut. GqL Duncan's field battery — all of his division — and
three sqSdrons of dragoons, under Major Sumner, which I
had just ordered up to join in the movement.
Having turned the forest on the west, and arriiing opposite
to the north centre of Chapultepec, Worth came up with the
troops in the road, under Col. Trousdale, and aided, by a flank
movement of a part of Garland's brigade, in taking the one
gun breastwork, then under the fire of Lieut. Jackson's section
of Capt. Magruder's field battery. Continuing to advance,
this division passed Chapultepec, attacking the right of the
enemy's line, resting on that road, about the moment of the
general retreat consequent upon the capture of the formidable
castle and its outworks.
Arriving some minutes later, and mounting to the top of the
castle, the whole field, to the east, lay plainly under my view.
OFFICIAL DESPATCH OF GEN. SCOTT. 818
There are two routes from Chapultepec to the capital — ^the
one on the right entering the same gate, Belen, with the road
from the south, via Piedad ; and the other obUquing to the
left, to intersect the great western, or San Cosmo road, in a
suburb outside of the gate of San Cosmo.
Each of these routes (an elevated causeway) presents a
double roadway on the sides of an aqueduct of strong mason-
ry and great height, resting on open arches and massive
pillars, which together afford fine points both for attack and
defence. The sideways of both aqueducts are, moreover,
defended by many strong breastworks at the gates, and before
reaching them. As we had expected, we found the four
tracks unusually dry and solid for the season.
Worth and Quitman were prompt in pursuing the retreating
enemy — the former by the San Cosmo aqueduct, and the
latter along that of Bolen. Each had now advanced some
himdred yards.
Deeming it all-important to profit by our success^, and the
consequent dismay of the enemy, which could not UKherwise
than general, I hastened to despatch from Chapull^Kc — ^fiist
Clark's brigade, and then Cadwallader's, to the support of
Worth, and gave orders that the necessary heavy guns shoijdd
follow. Pierce's brigade was, at the same time, sent to Quit-
man, and, in the course of the afternoon, I caused some
additional siege pieces to be added to his train. . Then, after
designating the 15th infantry, under Lieut. Col. Howard —
Morgan, the colonel, had been disabled by a wound at Churu-
busco— as the garrison of Chapidtepec, and giving directions
for the care of the prisoners of war, the captured ordnance
and ordnance stores, I proceeded to join the advance of
Worth, within the suburb, and beyond the turn at the junction
of the aqueduct with the great highway from the west to the
gate of San Cosmo. '
BB
814 OFPfCIAL DESPATCH OP OSM. WOOTT*
At tliis junction of roads, we firat paned one of tlioee
fonnidable systems of city defences, spoken of aboTe, and it
had not a gun!— « strong proof, 1. That the enemy had
expected us to fail in the attack, upon Chapnltepec, eren if we
meant any thing more than a feint ; 2. That, in either case,
we designed, in his belief, to retom and doable our forces
against the southern g^tes— a delusion kept up by the active
demonstrations of Twiggs and the forces posted on that aide ;
and, 3. That advancing rapidly from the reduction of Chapul-
tepee, the enemy had not time to shift gruns--M>ur previous
captures had left him, comparatively, but few — ^from the
southern gates.
Within those disgamished works, I found our troops engaged
in a street fight against the enemy posted in gardens, at win-
dows, and on house-tops — ^all flat, with parapets. Worth
ordered forward the mountain howitzers of Cadwallader's
brigade, preceded by skirmishers and pioneers, with pickaxes
and crowbars, to force windows and doors, or to burrow
throughflfaills. The assailants were soon in an equality of
position mial to the enemy. By eight o'clock in the evening,
Worth had carried two batteries in this suburb. According
to my instructions, be here posted guards and sentinels, and
placed his troops under shelter for the night There was but
one more obstacle — the San Cosmo gate, (custom-house,) be-
tween him and the great square in front of the cathedral and
palace, the heart of the city ; and that barrier it was known
could not, by daylight, resist our siege guns thirty minutes.
I had gone back to the foot of Chapultepec, the point from
which the two aqueducts begin to diverge, son^e hours earlier,
in order to be near that new depot, and in easy communication
with Quitman-and Twiggs, as well as with Worth.
From this point I ordered all detachments and stragglers
to their respective corps, then in advance ; sent to Quitman ad-
.t'l ^^m
OTFtCIAL DESPATCH Of SEN. SCOTT. 31S
ditioual Biige guns, ammunition, intrenching tools ; directed
l^^s' remaining brigade (Rilej^'s) from Piedad, to enpport
Worth, and Captain 8t«ptoe's Seld-battery, also at Piedad, to
rejoin Quitman's division.
I had been, from the fint, well aware that the western or
San Cosmo, was the less difBcult rout« to the centre, and con-
quest of the capital, and therefore intended that Quitman
should only manteuvre and threaten the Belen or southwest'
era gate, in order to favor the main attack hj Worth, knowing
that the strong defences at the Belen were directly under the
guns of the nyich stronger fortress, called the Citadel, just
within. Both of these defences of the enemy were also with-
in easy supporting distance from the San Angel (or Nino Per-
dido] and San Antonio gates. Hence the greater support, in
numbers, given to Worth's movement as the main attack.
These views I repeatedly, in the coorae of the day, commu-
nicated to Major-general Quitman ; but being in hot putsult— i
gallant himself, and ably supported by Briga^^^enerala
Shields and Smith, Shields badly wounded befo^^Kapulte-
pec, and refusing to retire, as well as by all the omcers and
men of the column — Quitman continued to press forward,
under flank and direct fires, carried an intermediate battery of
two guns, and then the gate, before two o'clock in the after-
noon, bat not without proportionate loss, increased by his
steady muntenance of that portion.
Here, of the heavy battery, (4 th artillery,) Captain Drum
and Lieutenant Benjamin were mortally wounded, and Lieu-
tenant Porter, its third in rank, slightly. The loss of those
two moat distinguished officere the army will long mourn.
Lieutenants J. B. Morange and William Canty, of the South
Carolina volunteers, also of high merit, fell on the same occa-
non, besides many of our bravest non-commisaioned officers
ud OMn, pvticttlariy in Captain Dram's veteran cixnpany. I
•10
ctunifA, m ihk pboe; give bubs 4r whw» ; b«t hJi
t4 ih« kiJM aod voaaded, «f ^ earpi» ii tkdr recent opera-
tkiTM, will MtjnfMkpimj thm repon.
QtiftrviMin wiUiin the eitj— adding trfenl new defences to
ilM* \rtmiUfn iUi had von, and sheherbif hk coq» as wefl as
|fMU'iicAM#) — now awaited the retvn «f daylight vnder the
f(iinM fif thi9 frMTDidable dtadel, yet to be sobdned.
AI»oiit 4 o'clrick next morning, (Sept. 14,) a deputation of
iliM uyunttifniento (city council) waited upon me to report that
tlin fmjiirnl govornihent and the anny of Mexico had fled from
iliM iMiplhil fifiino throe hours before ; and to demand terms of
rii|iltu1tilif)n hi favor of the church, the citizens, and the mu-
iiirl)tii1 luithtM'itioN. I promptly replied, that I would sign no
oiipituliilitin; that tho cily hud been virtually in our possessioa
\\\\\\\ \\\\} tiiuo tif tho UMlginents effected by Worth and Quit-
\\\\\\\ (Ito \\\\\ bcfort^ ; that I regretted the silent escape of the
MoxhMui aiiuy ; (hat t nhould levy upon the city a moderate
^HMUubuuuiii iVtr ^pcHMal purposes; and that the American
Aiiu\ fchajiM otmvo uiulor no terms not self-imposed: such
\\\\\\ a« lU ttwu htuior. tho dignity of the United States, and
(ho *|mi( of I ho agi\ should, in my opinion, imperiously de-
\\\\\\\\\ auil iiupivso.
V\\\ tho toinvii, »o im^HViod, I refer the department tosubse-
\\\w\\\ Houoi.U Ouloi-s. Xiv^ *JS7 and 289, (paragraphs 7, 8,
Hiul \» \\{ (ho lattov.^ oopios of which are herewith enclosed.
At tho ton\uu:uion of iho intorww with the city deputation,
\ o^^iuuuuwo.'itxst. aUmt davUght, onlera to Worth and Quit-
\\\\\\\ to a^lxcM^'t^ a)o\\Iv and cautiously (to guard against treach-
ov> ^ (owaulu «ho htv4rt \M' tho city, and to occupy its stronger
ik\\\\ \\\\\\\^ oouuuaiuliiu;: IHMnt.s, Quitman proceeded to the
i;»^>*i( pU*a oi ^)^iaiv« pUnt«\l guards, and hoisted the colors
^^ tl\o TuK^si Si,-«(«\ft xM\ ?htf^ nativ\nal palace, containing the
\Mk\UA \\M^i\vMaml ^wvuiivv dopartments of federal Mexico.
OFFICIAL DESPATCH OF GEN. SCOTT., 317
In this grateful service, Quitman might have been anticipated
by Worth, but for my express orders, halting the latter at the
head of the Alameda, (a green park,) within three squares of
that goal of general ambition. The capital, however, was not
taken by any one or two corps, but by the talent, the science,
the gallantry, the prowess of this entire army. In the glori-
rious conquest, all had contributed, early and powerfully, the
killed, the wounded, and the fit for duty, at Vera Cruz, Cerro
Gordo, Contreras, San Antonia, Churubusco, (three battles,)
the Molino del Rey, and Chapultepec, as much as those who
fought at the gates of Belen and San Cosmo.
Soon after we had entered, and were in the act of occupy-
ing the city, a fire was opened upon us from the flat roofs of
the houses, from windows and comers of streets, by some two
thousand convicts, liberated the night before by the flying
government, jomed by, perhaps, as many Mexican soldiers,
who had disbanded themselves, and thrown off their uniforms.
This unlawful war lasted more than twenty-four hours, in
spite of the exertions of the municipal authorities, iH was not
put down till we had lost many men, including seveffil officers,
killed or wounded, and had punished the miscreants. Their
objects were to gratify national hatred, and in the general
alarm and confusion, to plunder the wealthy inhabitants, par-
ticidarly the deserted houses. But families are now generally
returning ; business of every kind has been resumed, and the
city is already tranquil and cheerful, under the admirable
conduct (with exceptions very few and trifling) of our gallant
troops.
This army has been more disgusted than surprised, that by
some sinister process on the part of certain individuals at
home, its niunbers have been, generally, almost trebled in oul*
public papers, beginning at Washington.
Leaving, as we all feared, inadequate garrisons at Vera
bb2
818 OFFICIAL DESPATCH OF OBIT SCOTT.
Cms, Perote, and Puebla, with much larger hospitals ; and
being obliged, most reluctantly, from the same cause (general
paucity of numbers) to abandon Jalapa, we marched (August
7-10) from Puebla with only 10,738 rank and file. This num-
ber includes the garrison of Jalapa, and the 2,429 men brought
up by Brigadier-general Pierce, August 6.
At Contreras, Churubusco, &o., [August 20,] we had but
8,497 men engaged— -after deducting the garrison of San
Augustin, (our general depot,) the intermediate sick and the
dead ; at the Molino del Rey, (September 8,) but three
brigades, with some cavalry and artillery — making in all 8,251
men — were in the battle; in the two days — September 12th
and 13 th— our whole operating force, after deducting, again,
the recent killed, wounded, and sick, together with the garri-
son of Miscoac (the then general depot) and that of Tacubaya,
was but 7,180 ; and, finally, after deducting the new garrison
of Chapultepec, with the killed and wounded of the two days,
we took possession, (September 14th,) of this great capital
with les^, than 6,000 men. And I reassert, upon accumu-
lated andr imquestionable evidence, that, in not one of those
conflicts was this army opposed by fewer than three-and-a-half
times its numbers — ^in several of them, by a yet greater excess.
I recapitulate our losses since we arrived in the basin of
Mexico.
August 19, 20. — ^Killed, 137, including 14 oflficers. —
Wounded, 877, including 62 officers. Missing, (probably
killed,) 38 rank and file. Total, 1,052.
Skptembkr 8. — ^Killed, 116, including 9 officers. — ^Wounded,
665, including 49 officers. Missing, 18 rank and file. Total, 789.
September 12, 13, 14. — Killed, 130, including 10 officers.
Wounded, 703, mcluding 68 officers. Missing, 29 rank and
file. . Total, 862.
Grand total of losses, 2,703, including 383 officers.
OFFICIAL DESPATCH OF OBN. SCOTT. 819
On the other hand, this small force has beaten on the same
occasions in view of their capita], the whole Mexican army, of
(at the beginning) thirty-odd thousand men — posted, always,
in chosen positions, behind intrenchments, or more formidable
defences of nature and art ; killed or woimded, of that num-
ber, more than 7,000 officers and men ; taken 3,730 prisoners,
one-seventh officers, including 13 generals, of whom 3 had
been presidents of this repubhc ; captured more than 20
colors and standards, 75 pieces of ordnance, besides 57 wall
pieces, 20,000 small-arms, an immense quantity of shots, shells,
powder, (&c., &c.
Of that enemy, once so formidable in niunbers, appoint-
ments, artillery, &c,, twenty-odd thousand have disbanded
themselves in despair, leaving, as is known, not mote than
three fragments — the largest about 2,500 — ^now wandering in
different directions, without magazines or a military chest, and
living at free quarters upon their own people.
General Santa Anna, himself a fugitive, b believed to be
on the point of resigning the chief-magistracy, and 6Maping to
neutral Guatemala. A new President, no doubt, wm soon be
declared, and the federal Congress is expected to reassemble
at Queretaro, 125 miles north of this, on the Zacatecas road,
some time in October. I have seen and given safdconduct
through tliis city to several of its members. The govern-
ment will find itself without resources ; no army, no arsenals,
no magasdnes, and but little revenue, internal or external
Still, such \s the obstinacy, or rather infatuation, of this
people, that it is very doubtful whether the new authorities
will dare to sue for peace on the terms which in the recent
negotiations, were made known by our minister.
««« « ««««
In conclusion, I beg to enumerate, once more, with due
commendation and thanks, the distinguished staff officers^
880 OFFICIAL DESPATCH OF OKN. «COTT.
general and personal, who, in our last opentioiui in firooi of
the enemy, accompanied me, and conmranicated crdien to
everj point and through every danger. Iiie|itenant-colQiiel
Hitchcock, acting inspector-general; Major Tumbnll and
Lieutenant Hardcastle, topographical engineen ; Major Kirbj,
chief paymaster ; Captain Irwin, chief quartermaster ; Captain
Grayson, chief commissary ; Captain H. L. Scott, chief in the
adjutant-generars department; Lieutenant Williams, aid-de-
camp ; Lieutenant Lay, military secretary ; and Major J. P.
Gaines, Kentucky cavalry, volunteer aid-de-camp; Captain
Lee, engineer, so constantly distinguished, also bore important
orders from me, (September 13,) until he fainted from a wound
and the loss of two nights' sleep at the batteries. Lieutenants
Beauregard, Stevens, and Tower, all wounded, were employed
with the divisions, and Lieutenants G. W. Smith and G. B.
McClellan, with the company of sappero and miners. Thos€
five lieutenants of engineers, like their captain, won the admi-
ration of all about them. The ordnance officers. Captain
Huger, lieutenants Hagner, Stone, and Reno, were highly
effective, and distinguished at the several batteries ; and I must
add that Captain McKinstry, assistant quartermaster, at the
close of the operations, executed several important commia-
sions for me as a special volunteer.
Surgeon-general Lawson, and the medical staff generally,
were skilful and untiring, in and out of fire, in ministering to
the numerous wounded.
To illustrate the operations in this basin, I enclose two
beautiful dravrings, prepared imder the directions of Major
TurnbuU, mostly from actual survey.
I have the honor to be, sir, with high respect, your most
obedient servant,
WINFIELD SCOTT.
The Hon. Wm. L. Marct, Secretary of War.
' REFLECTIONS ON THE BVE>T. 321
On the morning of the 18th of September all wbb
quiet. Mexico, the capitel of the ancient Aztecs —
the seat of the Spanish- American empire in America —
had passed from Aztec and from Spaniard, to the Anglo-
American — the Northman of the Goihs, the Saxon of Ger-
many, the Englishman of America — the same bold, hardy,
energetic, ingenious, invincible, ambitious, and adventu-
rous being, whose genius the forms of civilization cannot
confine, and to whose dominion continents are inadequate !
In what hour of lime, or limit of space, shall this man of
the moderns' — this conqueror over land and seas, nations
and governments — find rest, in the completion of his
mighty progress? Commencing his march in the cold
regions of Scandinavia, no ice chilled his blood — no wil-
derness delayed his steps — no labor wearied his industry —
no arms arrested his march — no empire subdued his pow-
er. Over armies and over empires — over lands and over
seas — in heat and cold, and wilderness and flood-r-amidst
the desolations of death, and the decays of disease — this
Northman has moved on in might and majesty, steady as
the footsteps of Time, and fixed as tlie decrees of Fate !
How singular — how romantically strange is this— -his
wild adventure and marvellous conquest in the valley of
valleys-l How came the Northman and the Moorish Celt
here to meet, and here to battle, in this North-American
valley ? Look at it ! Inquire ! Ask yourself how they
came here ? Are they the citizens, by nature, of this con-
linent 1 Are they the aborigines of these wild and won-
derful forests 1 Never ! How came they then to be con-
tending for the lands and groves of those whose children
they are not ?
In the beginning cf the 16tb century, Hernando Cortex
21
3:^ RsruBCTioNs on the bvent.
landed on the coast of Mexico, and, at the head of Span-
ish troops, marched on to the conquest of Mexico, orer
whose effeminate inhabitants the Spaniard has, for three
hundred years, held undivided dominion. Not many
years after, the Anglo-Saxon landed on the coasts of the
northern Atlantic. He, too, marched on to conquest.
The native citizens of the forest disappeared before him.
Forests, mountains, and Indians, were ineffectual to op-
pose him. From the banks of the St. Lawrence to the
Sabine of Texas, he is a conqueror over nature. In the
south, the natives die, or become slaves to the Spaniard.
In the north, they fade and perish before the Anglo-
American. Tlie one spreads his empire from the Gulf
of Mexico to the far shores of California ; the other, from
the hills of St. Francis to the mountains of Oregon. Both
extend over breadths of land, and power of resources,
unknown to the widest empire of antiquity. Egypt, and
her millions, with the famed valley of the Nile, fade be-
fore the broad magnificence, the mighty growth, of these
American empires ! JEven the terrible and far-seeing
eagles of Rome grow dizzy and dim in their sight, as
they look down from the summits of history upon these
continental nations — these colossal giants of the modern
world ! And now, this Spaniard and this Northman meet,
in battle-panoply, in this valley of volcanoes, by the an-
cient graves of unknown nations, on the lava-covered soil
where nature once poured forth her awe-inspiring flames,
and the brave Tlascalan once sung of glory and of great-
ness ! Three centuries since, these warrior nations had
left their homes beyond the wide Atlantic. Two thousand
miles from each other, they had planted the seats of their
empire ; and now, as if time in the moral world had com-
REFLECTIONS ON THE EVENT. 328
pleted another of its grand revolutions, they have met in
mortal conflict Like the eagle and the vulture, who
had long pursued different circles in the heavens, and
long made prey of the weak tenants of the air, their cir-
cles have been enlarged till they cross each other. They
shriek ! They fight ! The victorious eagle bears the
vulture to the earth, and screams forlli through the cloudy
his triumphant song ! Has the bold bird received no
wound 1 Has no blood tinged the feathers of his wing?
Is there no secret flow of life from the portals of his
heart? Will he continue to look, with unblenched eye,
on the blazing glories of the sun? Hid in the eternal
decrees of God, is the life of nations ; and not till He has
drawn away the curtains of time, will mortals know the
secrets of His will in the government of nations.
/
8S4 SIBOI OF FUBBU.
CHAPTER XIV.
Siege of Paebla^ — March of Santa Anna^ — Deaertioa of hia troopa^ — ^BCarah
of Rea. — ^Battle of Huamantla^ — Santa Anna*a reaignation. — Peila y
Pefia President — Negotiations for peaces— Treaty signed — Ratificatioaa.
— ^The Treaty. — ^Territory aoquirod — Losses of the army. — Names of
officers killecL — Conclosion.
The military events which closed on the 18lh of Sep-
tember, with the capture of the city of Mexico, closed
also, with the exception of some incidental and minor en-
gagements, the war with Mexico. To all practical in-
tents, Mexico was conquered. From Santa Fe in the
north to Tampico in the south, — from the Rio Grande to
the shores of the Pacific, — from the heights of the Sierra
Madre to those of the Sierra Nevada, — the troops and
navy of the United Stales held every position which, either
in a military or commercial view, was valuable or accessi-
ble to the channels of business and population. Hence-
forward, the chief movement of our troops was the advance
of reinforcements, which, had they been earlier, had been
useful, but were now loo late to aid the victorious army,
or share in the glory of its achievements. Collateral
movements wefe made, and two or three small skirmishes
took place which were honorable to our arms. But the
burden and battle of the war was past. The victory was
won, and the question of the day was, " When and how
shall peace be made ?"
Santa Anna, who had been driven out of Mexico by
MOVEMENTS OF SANTA ANNA. 325
the American troops, escaped with a body of two or three
thousand men, and for some days was unheard of. On
the 25th of September, however, he appeared in the city
of Puebla, the surrounding heights of which were garri-
soned and defended by Col. Childs. The American gar
jrison was weak, and had under its care the hospitals,
which contained many sick. The object of the Mexican
commander was the surprise and capture of this post,
which had been left isolated by the advance of the Amer-
ican army on Mexico, and was now besieged by Rea.
The movement was a good one, had the Mexican strength
been sufficient for the purpose. On his appearance Santa
Anna inmiediately summoned the American commander
to surrender, to which Col. Childs returned a prompt re-
fusal, couched in firm and dignified terms.^ On the 28th,
the positions around Puebla were occupied by Santa
Anna with batteries, and a bombardment commenced on
the American intrenchments. In return, the batteries of
Col. Childs bombarded the city. On the 29tb, the troops
of Santa Anna occupied the convent of Santa Theresa,
and began to cover themselves with cotton-bales. On
the dOth, General Rea, who was joined by Santa Anna,
commenced erecting batteries, and cannonading the Amer-
icans.
In the mean time, however, the Mexican troops were
almost wholly destitute of provisions, and in a most suffer-
ing condition. Having heard of the advance of an Amer-
ican convoy on the National Road, Santa Anna, on the 1st
of October, sallied out of Puebla with the view to inter-
cept it. Before his arrival at the point of destination, he
* Co r we p c u dence in the Wathington Unum.
326 GENERAL REA RAISES THE SUBOE.
was deserted by ail his troops, except about 130 hussars.
They alleged that he was incapable of accomplishing any
further service, and that certain destruction awaited them
should they any longer follow a leader whose fortunes
were so desperate. Thus after many bold enterprises,
signal defeats, and sanguinary adventures, this celebrated
Mexican chief found himself again a wanderer, alike de-
serted by fortune and by friends. He was soon after
denounced by the new Mexican govemment, and became
an exile from the shores of that country, where, for thirty
years, he had been the star of its destiny, alternately rising
and setting on its political horizon, attended by all the
hues of a checkered fate, and by all the incidents of a
various romance. Like other unfortunate warriors, he
" leaves his broken bands,
And shows his miseries in distant lands.*'
In the mean time, General Lane had left Vera Cruz
about the 1st of October, with a corps of 3000 men, ar-
rived at Perole on the 4lh, and on the 8lh nearly surprised
Santa Anna, who barely escaped the village of Huamantla.
On the 12th of October, General Rea raised the siege of
Puebla, and marched, as it was supposed, to surprise
General Lane and his convoy at Tinal. This was, how-
ever, not done, and Lane, hearing that he was at Hua-
mantla, forthwith marched to attack him. A brilliant ac-
tion took place, in which the usual success attended the
American arms, and the Mexicans were driven out with con-
siderable loss. In this action, Captain Walker, one of the
most distinguished of the noted Texan Rangers, was killed.
He was more distinguished for a barbarous desperation of
adventure, than for true chivalry or magnanimous war
RESIGNATION OF SANTA ANNA. 327
On the 19th of October, the Americans entered Atlisco
with 1,500 men; and soon after, they captured Orizaba,
with several other considerable places. The young offi-
cers of the army, searching with keen ambition for the
novelties of romantic enterprise, planted the American
flag in succession on the loftiest peaks of' the Cordilleras,
^-on summits which looked down on the region of clouds,
and are clothed with eternal ice. There, on rocks visited
only in the waste of ages by the lone eagle in his sun-
ward flight, the flag of the conqueror waves in the wind
which bathes the silent volcanoes of Orizaba and Popo-
catepetl ! *
But the word which is now on the lips of conquered
and conqueror is — Peace. The United States desired
not to govern the mixed races of Mexico, and Mexico felt
that she had no longer opposition to ofi*er. A new gov-
ernment and a new destiny was about to arise for Mexico.
On the 18th of October, Santa Anna resigned the su-
preme power into the hands of Pena y Pefia, President
of the Supreme Court of Justice. On the 22d, he issued
his proclamation to the Mexican people, vindicating his
conduct throughout the turbulent scenes and unfortunate
events of the war, and from that time he has disappeared
from the stage of Mexican afiairs.
Previous to this resignation of Santk Anna, however,
Pefia y Pena had assumed the reins of government
The executive chair was declared vacant, and on the 27th
of September, Pefia took the vacant place, by virtue of
being President of the Supreme Court of Justice. He
immediately addressed circulars to the States, calling up-
on them to send deputies to Queretaro, to pay their ex-
penses, and provide funds for their support. The Presi-
828 NBOOTIATIONS FOR FSACB.
dent, io urging attention to this important business, says,
^^This is probably the last experiment of goTemment
which will be made in our unfortunate country."
Under these urgent solicitations, the Congress assem-
bled at Queretaro in November, and on the 11th General
Anaya was elected President. Peila y Peiia was elected
Secretary of State. One of the first acts of the new gov-
ernment was to appoint a commission to proceed to Mex-
ico, and negotiate with Mr. Trist the terms of peace, on
the basis of his former scheme. This commission con-
sisted of Messrs. Couto, Atristain, Cuevas, and Rincon,
who immediately proceeded to execute the duties of their
office.
On the 1st of January the old Congress was dissolved,
but a new one had in the mean time been elected ; and
on the 8th of January, the new administration was organ-
ized by the meeting of Congress at Queretaro, and the
return of Pena y Pena to the executive chair. The pe-
riod for which Anaya was elected President expired with
the old Congress, and Peiia returned to power in virtue of
being President of the Supreme Court of Justice.
On the 2d of February the Treaty of Peace was signed
at Guadaloupe by Nicholas P. Trist, on the part of the
United States, and Messrs. Couto, Atristain, and Cuevas,
commissioners, on the part of Mexico. The powers of
Mr. Trist, as commissioner, had been withdrawn by the
American executive ; but he assumed to continue his au-
thority on the very natural ground, it may be supposed,
that the necessities for peace were so great, and felt so
strongly by the government of the United States, tha^any
treaty, not degrading to our government in its terms, would
be latified, without a very serious and special inquiry into
y
TREATT BIONKD. SS9
the anthority by which it was made. In this jodgment
he was justified by the erent.
On the 6th of Febmaiy, the Treaty was officially an-
nounced to the Mexican States by a circular firom Secre-
tary Rosas. Dispatches were immediately forwarded to
Secretary Buchanan at Washington ; and the sole inquiry
now before the public mind was, whether the Treaty would
be ratified by the Senate of the United States on one
hand, or the Congress of Mexico on the other, — in whom
was Tested by the constitutions of the respectiTe coun-
tries, the power of ratification. By some means the con-
tents of the Treaty became known to the public, and it
was perceived that the United States had agreed to pay
a larger sum of money than was originally contemplated,
while -the land received in exchange was substantially no
more valuable. This fact, taken in connection with an^
other — that the Treaty was negotiated witliout authority
— made it doubtful whether it would be , ratified by tot
constitutional majority.
On the 22d of February, only twenty days after it was
signed at Guadaloupe, President Polk formally submitted
it to the Senate. On the 28th he transmitted another
message, recommending its ratification.
The Hon. Daniel Webster proposed in a resolution,
that a new coomiission should be appointed to negotiate
a new treaty. This proposition was laid on the table.^
The Senate then proceeded to consider the treaty in de-
tail.
March 2d. — Part of the lOth Article, confirming former
contracts for lands, was unanimously struck out.
Jonniali of Uie 8tiMt«b
8S0 AMBNDMSNT IH THE U. S. SENATE.
March dd. — ^The secret article, extending the time for
ratification to eight months, was stricken out, by 48 to 2.
March 7th. — ^The Hon. J. J. Crittenden introduced
a resolution, that we should be confined in the Treaty to
a " satisfactory settlement of the boundary of Texas, and
the acquisition of the Bay of San Francisco." This reso-
lution was rejected by the following vote,^ viz. :
Yeas. — Badger, Baldwin, Bell, Berrien, Clarke, Clay
ton, Corwin, Crittenden, Davis of Mass., Dayton, Greene,
Hale, Johnson of Md., Miller, Spruance, Underwood,
Upham.
Nays. — Allen, Ashley, Atchison, Atherton, Bradbury,
Breese, Bright, Butler, Calhoun, Cameron, Cass, Dix,
Dickinson, Davis of Miss., Douglas, Downs, Felch,
Foote, Hannegan, Houston, Johnson of La., Johnson of
Ga., Lewis, Mason, Moore, Niles, Rusk, Sevier, Stur-
geon, Turney, Yulee. — 17 yeas to 31 nays.
Ttfarch 8ih. — Mr. Baldwin moved to insert at the end
of the 5th Article — " Provided, that there shall be neither
slavery nor involuntary servitude in the territories hereby
ceded, otherwise than in the punishment of crimes, where-
of the party shall have been duly convicted." Thjp also
was negatived by the following vote :
Yeas, — Atherton, Baldwin, Clarke, Clayton, Corwin,
Davis of Mass., Dayton, Dix, Greene, Hale, Miller, Niles,
Phelps, Spruance, Upham. — 15.
Nays. — Allen, Ashley, Atchison, Badger, Bagby,*Bell,
Benton, Berrien, Bradbury, Breese, Bright, Butler, Cal-
houn, Cameron, Cass, Crittenden, Davis of Miss., Dickin-
son, Douglas, Downs, Felch, Foote, Hannegan, Hunter,
^ * Jooraab of the Senate.
TREATY RATIFIED. 331
Johnson of La., Johnson of Md., Johnson of Ga., Lewis,
Mangum, Mason, Moore, Pearce, Rusk, Sevier, Sturgeon,
Tumey, Underwood, Yulee. — 38.
March 10th. — After several important amendments to
the original form of the Treaty, that instrument was final-
ly ratified, by two-thirds of the Senate advising and con-
senting thereto, by the following vote :
Yeas. — Ashley, Atherton, Bagby, Bell, Bradbury,
Bright, Butler, Calhoun, Cameron, Cass, Clarke, Critten-
den, Davis, Dayton, Dickinson, Dix, Felch, Foote, Greene,
Hale, Hannegan, Hunter, Johnson of Md., Johnson of ^
La., Johnson of Ga., Mangum, Mason, Miller, Moore, ^^^
Niles, Rusk, Sevier, Sturgeon, Tumey, Downs, Clayton,
Yulee, Underwood. — ^38.
Nays, — Allen, Atchison, Badger, Baldwin, Benton,
Berrien, Breese, Corwin, Douglas, Lewis, Spruance, Up-
ham, Webster, Westcott. — 14. ^
The Senate having thus ratified the Treaty, with|PV-
eral important amendments, it became necessary that the
Treaty should be also ratified by the Mexican Congress.
The President accordingly appointed Nathan Clifford,
Attorney-general, and Ambrose Sevier, Chairman of the
Committee of Foreign Relations in the Senate, as Com-
missioners on the part of the United States, to lay the
Treaty, thus modified, before the Mexican Congress.
These gentlemen hastened to Mexico, but some weeks
elapsed before a quorum of the Mexican Congress could
be assembl^ed at Queretaro. At length the Congress met,
and the ratification of the Treaty was urged upon the
Congress ably and eloquently by President Pefia. He
succeeded. The Treaty was ratified by a large majority
in the Congress, and by 33 to 5 in the Senate.
l"
882 PBICB PROCLAIMED.
The American CommissioDers officially notified the
Secretary of State that the Treaty was complete, and on
the 19th of June, 1848, — being two years and two months
from the commencement of the war, — the peop|e of the
United States were formally notified, that there was
Pbacb bbtwbbn Mbxico and thb Unitbd Statbs !
By the PreMent of tht United States rf America,
A PROCLAMATION.
iWhereas a treaty of peace, friendship, limits, and settle-
ment between the United States of America and the Mexican
republic, was concluded and signed at the city of Guadaloupe
Hidalgo, on the second day of February, one thousand eight
hundred and forty-eight, which treaty, as amended by the
Senate of the United States, and being in the English and
Spanish languages, is word for word as follows :
In the name of Almighty God :
The United States of America and the United Mexican Statei, anima-
^l^y a sincere desire to put an end to the calamities of the war which
>ily exists between the two republics, and to establish upon a solid
'relations of peace and friendship, which shall confer reciprocal bene-
fits upon the citizens of both, and assure the concord, harmony, and mu-
tual confidence wherein the two people should live, as good neighbora,
have for that purpose appointed their respective plenipotentiaries— that is
to say, the President of the United States has appointed Nicholas P.
Trist, a citizen of the United States, and the President of the Mexican
fepublic has appointed Don Luis Gonzaga Cuevas, Don Bernardo Couto,
and Don Miguel Atristain, citizens of the said republic, who, after a re-
ciprocal conmiunication of their respective full powers, have, under the
protection of Almighty God, the author of peace, arranged, agreed upon,
and signed the following
Treaty of peace, friendship, limite, and tettlement, between the United
States of America and the Mexican republic.
AaTicLC I.
There shall be firm and univer^ peace between the United States
oi America and the Mexican republic, and between their respective comi-
tries, territories, cities, towns, and people, without exception of places or
TKSATT or FBACB. 3S9
AftTICLS IL
Immediately upon the ngnatore of thb treaty, a eoDYentioa ahaO be
entered into between a commiHioner or comnusBioneri appointed by the
General-in-chief of the force* of the United States, and mch as may be
appointed by the Mexican government, to the end that a proTisionai sos-
pension of hostilities ■hall take place, and that, in the places occupied by
the said forces, constitutional order may be re-establiahed, as regards the
political, adminfatratiTe, and jodicial branches, so far as thb shall be per>
mitted by the ciicomstances of military occupation.
AaTica^ IIL
Immediately upon the ratification of the present treaty by the govern-
ment of the United States, orders shall be transmitted to the oommanden
of their land and naval forces, requiring the Utter (provided this treaty
shall then have been ratified by the government of the Mexican republic,
and the ratifications exchanged) immediately to desist from blockading
any Mexican ports ; and requiring the former (under the same condition)
to commence, at the earliest moment practicable, withdrawing all troops
of the United States then in the interior of the Mexican republic, to points
that shall be selected by common agreement, at a distanoe from the sea-
ports not exceeding thirty leagues ; and such evacuation of the interior of
the republic shall be completed with the least posuble delay ; the Mexi-
can government hereby binding itself to afiSvd every facility in its
for rendering the same convenient to the troops on their march
their new positions, and for promoting a good underrtanding bet
them and the inhabitants. In like manner, orden shall be diq>atched to
the pereons in charge of the custom-houses at all poits occupied by the
forces of the United States, requiring them (under the same conditions)
inmiediately to deliver posse—ion of the same to the persons authorized
by the Mexican government to receive it, together with all bonds and
evidences of debt for duties on importations and on exportations not yet
fallen dne. Moreover, a faithful and exact account shall be made out,
showing the entire amount of all duties on imports and on exports collected
at such custom-houses or elsewhere in Mexico by authority of the United
States, from and after the day of ratification of this treaty by the govern-
ment of the Mexican republic ; and also an account of the cost of collec-
tion ; and such entire amount, deducting only the cost of collection, shall
be delivered to the Mexican government, at the city of Mexico, within
three months after the exchange of ratifications.
The evacuation of the capital of the Mexican republic by the troops
of the United States, in virtue of the above stipulation, shall be completed
in one month after the orden there- stipulated for shall bars bsaa ftoehrvd
by the commander of said troops, or sooner if posslbUt
'4B
«nReii
tM TREATY OF PBACS.
AftTIOLB IV.
Immediately after the exchange of rattficationa of the praent treaty, all
caatleo, fortBy tenitoriea, plaeea, and powe«ioM, which have been taken or
occupied by the forces of the United Statea during the preaent war, with-
in the limiU of the Mexican repoblie, aa about to be ettabliihed by the fol-
lowing article, ahaU be definitively restored to the aaid republic, together
with all the artillery, arms, apparatus of war, munitions, and other public
propeity, which were in the said castles and forts when captured, and
which shall remain there at the time when thb treaty shall be duly ratified
by the government of the Mexican republic To this end, immediately
upon the signature of this treaty, orders shall be dispatched to the Ammi-
can officers commanding such castles and forts, securing against the re-
moval or destruction of any such artillery, arms, apparatus of war, moni-
tions, or other public property. The city of Mexico, within the inner line
of intrenchments surrounding the said city, is comprehended in the above
stipulations, as regards the restoration of artillery, apparatus of war, dtc.
Tho final evacuation of the territory of the Mexican republic, by the
forces of the United States, shall be completed in three months from the
said exchange of ratifications, or sooner if possible ; the Mexican govern-
ment hereby engaging, as in the foregoing article, to use all means in its
power for facilitating such evacuation, and rendering it convenient to the
J, and for promoting a good understanding between them and the in-
its.
lowever, the ratification of this treaty by both parties should not
take place in time to allow the embarkation of the troops of the United
States to be completed before the commencement of the sickly season at
the Mexican ports on the gulf of Mexico, in such case a friendly arrange-
ment shall be entered into between the general -in-chief of the said troops
and the Mexican government, whereby healthy and otherwise suitable
places at a distance from the ports not exceeding thirty leagues shall be
designated for the residence of such troops as may not yet have embarked,
until the return of the healthy season. And the space of time here re-
fejTcd to as comprehending the sickly season shall be understood to ex-
tend from the first day of May to the first day of November.
All prisoners of war taken on either side, on land or on sea, shall be re-
stored as soon as practicable after the exchange of ratificatiims of this
treaty. It is also agreed that if any Mexicans should now be held as
captives by any savage tribe within the limits of the United States, as
about to be established by the following article, the government of the sakl
United States will exact the release of such captives, and cause them to
be restored to their country. *
\i
TREATY OF PEACE. 335
A&TICLB V.
The boundary lino between the two republics shall commence in the
gnlf of Mexico, three leagues from land, opposite the mouth of the Rio
Grande, otherwise called Rio Bravo del Norte, or opposite the mouth of its
deepest branch, if it should have more than one branch emptying directly
into the sea ; from thence up the middle of that river, following the
deepest channel, where it has more than one, to the point where it strikes
the southern bonndary of New Mexico ; thence, westwardly, along the
whole southern boundary of New Mexico (which runs north of the town
called Paso) to its weet^n termination ; thence, north ward« along the
western line of New Mexico, until it intersects the first branch of the
river Gila ; (or if it should not intersect any branch of that river, then to
the point on the said line nearest to such branch, and thence in a direct
line to the same thence down the middle of the said branch and of the
said river, until it empties into the Rio Colorado ; thence across the Rio
Colorado, following the division line between Upper and Lower California,
to the Pacific ocean.
The southern and western limits of New Mexico, mentioned in this
article, are those laid down in the map entitled " Map of the United
Mexican Statee, at organized and defined by varitme aeit of the Con"
greMt of eaid republic, and conetrueted according to the best authoritisM,
Revised edition. Published at New York in 1847, by J, Disturne^
Of which map a copy is added to this treaty, bearing the signati
seals of the undersigned plenipotentiaries. A^d, in order to preclul
difficulty in tracing upou the ground the limit separating Upper from
Lower California, it is agreed that the said limit shall consist of a straight
line drawn from the middle of the Rio Gila, where it unites with the
Colorado, to a point on the coast of the Pacific ocean distant one marine
league due south of the southernmost point of the port of San Diego, ac-
cording to the plan of said port made in the year 1782 by Don Juan Pan-
toja, second sailing-master of the Spanish fleet, and published at Madrid
in the year 1802, ui the Atlas to the voyage of the schooners Sutil and
Mexicana, of which plan a copy is hereunto added, signed and sealed by
the respective plenipotentiaries.
In order to designate the boundary line with due precision, upon au-
thoritative maps, and to establish upon the ground landmarks which shall
show the limits of both republics, as described in the present article, the
two governments shall each appoint a commissiouer and a surveyor, who,
before the expiration of one year from the date of the exchange of ratifica-
tions of this treaty, shall meet at the port of San Diego, and proceed to
run and mark the said boundary in its whole comae to the mouth of the
Rio Bravo del Norte. They shall keep journals and mark out plans of
inannes*
turneU^!
tureflB
>clu^H
836 TREATY OF FKACE
their operatioiu; and the leralt agreed upon by them ihall be deemed a
part of thb treaty, and ehaU have the same force aa if it were inserted
therein. The two govemmenta will amicably agree regarding what may
be necBiary to these peiionsy and also as to their zespectire esootth
ihonld each be necew ar y.
The boundary line established by this aztide shaU be religioiMiy zenpeeU
ed by each of the two republics, and no change shall oTor be made
therein, except by the express and free consent of both nations, lawfiaDy
given by the general government of each, in oonfonnity with ila own
constitution.
A&TICLI VL
The Teasels and citixens of the United States shall, in all time, haTS a
f^ and uninterrupted pasnge by the gulf of California, and by the river
Colorado below its coofloence with the Gila, to and from their poauMHiOBS
situated north of the boundary line defined in the preceding article ; it
being understood that this passage is to be by navigating the golf of Cali-
fornia and the river Colorado, and not by land, without the expreoi con-
sent of the Mexican government
If, by the examinations which may be made, it should be ascertained
to be practicable and advantageous to construct a road, canal, or railway,
which should in whole or in part run upon the river Gila, or upon its
right or its left bank, within the space of one marine league from either
^jbflgiii of the river, the governments of both republics will form an
^Vtement regarding its construction, in order that it may serve equally
for the use and advantage of both countries.
AmncLx VII.
The river Gila, and the part of the Rio Bravo del Norte lying below the
southern boundary of New Mexico, being, agreeably to the fUlh article,
divided in the middle, between the two republics, the navigation of the
Gila and of the Bravo below said boundary shall be free and common to
the veBsols and citizens of both countries ; and neither shall, without the
consent of the other, construct any work that may impede or interrupt,
in whole or in part, the exercise of this right ; not even for the purpose
of favoring new methods of navigation. Nor shall any tax or contribu-
tion, under any denomination or title, be levied upon vessels or persons
navigating the same, or upon merchandise or effects transported thereon,
except in the case of lauding upon one of their shorea If, for the pur-
pose of making the said rivers navigable, or for maintaining them in such
state, it should be necessary or advantageous to establish any tax or con-
tribution, this shall not be done without the consent of both governments.
TRKATT OF PEACE. 337
The fltipoiatioBi eoateiaed hi the p r wtn t article rfiaD nol inpur tlte
tanilonal rifhlB of eidMrrapabiie within ile eitaUiriied limilB.
VUL
Meiieene Dew iBtibliriied in lerritones la et iuiMly beloafinf to BCeneo,
•nd wfaieh leonin for the fatoro witfain the limili of the United States, aa
defined by the pfBaeat traatj, rfiall be fne to eonlinne where they no«
iMide, or to l e uw f e at any time to the Mexican rqmblie, letaining the
p wip erty which they poaiBM in the said territoriea, or disponif thereof,
and remorinf the p t oc eedi w h eiefer they pl eaae, withoat their beinf
snbjeeted, on thii aeeoont, to any contribotaon, tax, or eba^ whaterer.
Thoae who riiall prefer to remain in the oaid tenitoriea, may either re-
tain the title and lighto of Mexican citizens, or atoqnhre those of cstiienB
of the United StaleiL Bot they riiail bet onder the obligation to make
their election within one year fiom the dato of the exchange of ratifica-
tions of this treaty ; and those who shall remain in the said territariss
after the expiration of that year, without haTing declared their intontioa
to retain the character of Mexicans, shall be coondered to have elected to
bteome citizens of the United States.
In the said territories, property of erery kind, now behmging to Mexi-
cans not establisbed there, shall be inviolably respected. The preaoot
owners, the heiia of these, and all Mexicans who may hereafter aoqoflb
said p iuperty by contract, shall enjoy with respect to it guarantees eqa^|f
ample, as if the same bebnged to citizens of the United StateSi ^^k
AxTiCLi DL
Mexicans who, in the territories aforesaid, diaD not p res er ve the char-
acter of citizens of the Mexican repablic, conformably with what m stip-
ulated in the preceding article, shalJ be incorporated into the union of the
United States, and be admitted at the proper time (to be judged of by the
Congress of the United States) to the enjoyment of all the rights of dty
lens of the United States, according to the principles of the constitution ;
and in the mean time diall be maintained and protected in the enjoyment
of their liberty and property, and secured in the fiee exerdse of their re-
Egion without restriction.
AincLi X.
[Stricken out]
AxTicu XL
Considering that a great part of the territories which, by the present
treaty, are to be comprehended fbr the future within the limits of the Uni-
ted States, is now occupied by savage tribes, who will hereafter he under
22
388 TRBATT OF PBACB.
tii6 ezcloHTe eontnl of the gawtramvot of the Unitad Statas, mud wIiom
ineonions within the territory of Mexico wooM be prcjndieial in the
tzeme, it m eoleinnly agreed that all rach incnnioiii ihall be forpibiy
■trained by the government of the United States wfaemoeTer this may be
necevary ; and that when they cannot be prerented, they ihall be ponirii-
ed by the said govemmenty aini latielaction for the same ihall be ezaded
—all in the same way, and with equal diligence and energy, aa if tha
fame inearnona were meditated or committed within iti own teiritarji
against ita own eitixena.
It shall not be lawftil, under any pretext whatever, for any tnhabitaal
of the United^Statea to purchaae or acquire any Mexican, or any foreigner
reaidiiig in Mexiqo, who may have been captured by Indiana inhabiting
the territory of either of the two republica, nor to purchase or acquire
hofMs, mules, cattle, or property of any kind, stolen withm Mexican ter-
ritory by such Indians.
And in tho event of any person or penons, captured witliin Mexican
territory by Indians, being carried into the territory of the United States,
the government of the latter engages and binds itself, in the moel solemn
manner, so soon as it shall know of such captives being within its terri-
tory, aud shall be able so to do, through the faithful exercise of its influ-
ence and power, to rescue them aud return them to their country, or
deliver them to the agent or representative of the Mexican government
The Mexican authorities will, as far as practicable, give to the government
JVi^e United States notice of such captures ; and its agent shall pay the
^tpeuscH incurred in the maintenance and transmission of the rescued
captives ; who, in the mean time, shall be treated with the utmost hoepi«
tality by the American authorities at the place where they may be. But
if the government of the United States, before receiving such notice from
Mexico, should obtain intelligence, through any other channel, of the ex-
istence of Mexican captives within its territory, it will proceed forthwith to
effect their release aud delivery to the Mexican agent as above stipulated
For the purpose of giving to these stipulations the fullest possible effica-
cy, thereby affording tho security and redress demanded by their true
spirit and intent, the government of the United States will now aud here-
after pass, without unnecessary delay, and always vigilantly enforce, aneh
laws as the nature of the subject may require. And finally, the sacred-
ness of this obligation shall never be lost sight of by the said government
when providing for the removal of the Indians from any portion of the said
territories, or for its being settled by citizens of the United States ; but, on
the contrary, special care shall then be taken not to place its Indian occu-
pants under the necessity of "seeking new homea, by committing thoae
invaaiona which the United Statea have aoiemnly obliged themaelvaB to
raatrain.
TREATY OF PBACB. 389
AlTIGLB XIL
III eoiMideration of the eztennon acqnirad by the boimdarMs of tho
United States, aa defined hi the fifth article of the preoent treaty, the gor-
emment of the United Statea eagafeo to pay to that of the Mexican f»-
poblie the aom of fifteen milfioiM of dollara.
Immediately after this treaty diall hare been duly ratified by the
gofoiiiiiient of the Mexican repoblic, the tarn of three millioiui of dollan
riiall be paid to the said goremment by that of the United States, at the
city of Mexico, in the gold or silrer coin of Mexioa The remaining
twehre mfllions of doUare shall be paid at the same place, and in the same
coin, in annual instalments of three millioiis of dollan each, together with
interest on the same at the rate of six per centum per annum. This in-
terest ehall begin to run upon (he whole sum of twelve millions from the
day of the ratification of the present treaty by the Mexican goremment,
and the fint of the instalments ehall be paid at the expiration of one year
fiom the same day. Together with each annual instalment, as it faDs
doe, the whole interest aeeruing on such instalment from the beginning
■haH abo be paid.
AaTioLB XIIL
TTie United States engage, moreover, to asrame and pay to the claim-
ants all the amounts now due them, and those hereafter to become due,
by reason of the claims already liquidated and decided against the Mexte
can republic, under the conventions between the two republics Beverd|p''
concluded on the eleventh dajr of April, eighteen hundred and thirty-nine,
and on the thirtieth day of January, eighteen hundred and forty-three : so
that the Mexican republic shall be absolutely exempt, for the futme,
ftom all expense whatever on account of the said claims.
AmncLB XIV.
The United States do furthermore discharge the Mexican republic from
all claims of citizens of the United States not heretofore decided against
tbi Mexican government, which may have arisen previously to the date
of the ngnature of this treaty ; which discharge shall be final and perpet-
ual, whether the said claims be rejected or he allowed by the board of
oommisnoneni provided for in the following article, and whatever shall be
the total amount of those allowed.
AftTICLB XV.
The United States, exonerating Mexico* ftom all demands on aoconal
of the claim of their dtisens mentioBed in the preceding article, and ooii-
ridering them entirely and forever cancelled, whatever their amounl aMgf
940 TRBATT OF PBACB.
be, dbdeitake to make ntirfaotioii for the nme, to an ■moaal not •>-
oeeding three and ooe qumrter millione of doUan. To aecertain the l aB diiy
and amoant of thoie claima, a board of oommiMonen ihaU be eotablhhed
by the goTemment of the United Statea, whoee awardi thaU be final and
oonclnnye ; prorided, that in deeidinf iqwn the Talidity of eaoh dainiy,
the boQid ahall be goided and gorerned by the prine^ilei and nriea of
deoition preeoribed by the fint and fifth aitideo of the nnntified oootoa-
tion, concluded at the city of Mexico on the twentieth day of Norember,
one thoueand eight hondred and foity-three ; and in no caae diall an
award be made in iaTor of any claim not embraced by theae prineiphi
and mleo.
If, in the opinion of the laid board of commaMonen,or ofthe clajmanti^
any booka, recwda, or dooomenta in the poaMonon or power of the gor-
emment of the Mexican repablic, ihaU be deemed n eoeia r y to the jmt
decMon of any claim, the commi«ioneri, or the claimanta throogfa them,
AtJlf within tach period ai Congraai may designate, make an appltcatioB
in writing for the same, addrened to the Mexican Minister for Foreign
Affiurs, to be transmitted by the Secretary of State of the United Statea ;
and the Mexican gOYemment engages, at the eariiest possible moment
after the receipt of snch demand, to cause any of the books, records, or
documents, so specified, which shall be in their possession or power, (or
authenticated copies or extracts of the same,) to be transmitted to the
said Secretary of State, who shall immediately deliver them over to the
■aid board of commissioners : Provided, That no such application diaU
be made by, or at the instance of, any claimant, until the facta which it
is expected to prove by such books, records, or documenta, shall hare
been stated under oath or affirmation.
AnncLi XVI.
Each of the contracting parties reserves to itself the entire right to for-
tify whatever point within its territory it may judge proper ao to fortify
for its security.
AnnoLi XVII.
The treaty of amity, commerce, and navigation, concluded at the city
of Mexico on the fifth day of April, a. n. 1831, between the United States
of America and the United Mexican States, except the additional article,
and except so far as the stipulations of the said treaty may be incompati-
ble with any stipulation contained in the present treaty. Is hereby revived
for the period of eight years from the day of the exchange of ratifications
of this treaty, with the same foroe and virtue aa if inoorporated therein , A
being understood that eaoh of the oontracting partieo reserreo to itself the
right* at any tioie after the sakl period of e|gat yeaia shall have expired.
VI
TBEATY OF PEACE. 341
!• lenniBito the nme by giTing one year*! notice cf radi intentkn to tlie
oHmt party.
AftTICLB XVIIL
AJl mipplies wkat«?er for troopt of the United Statee in Mexico, airiying
at porta in the occupation of each tioopa previous to the final evacnatioa
theieof, althoufh anbeequently to the reetoration of the cutom-houaea at
mich porta, riiaU be entirely exempt from datiea and charges of any kind ,
the government ol the United States hereby engaging and pledging its
faith to establish, and vigilantly to enforce, all possible gnaids for securing
the revenoe of Mexico, by preventing the importation, under cover of this
stipulation, of any articles other than such, both in kind and in quantity,
as shall really he wanted for the use and consumption of the forces of the
United States during the time they may remain in Mexico. To this end
it shall be the duty of all officers and agents of the United States to de-
nounce to the Mexican authorities at the respective ports any attempts at
a fraudulent abuse of this stipulation which they may know of, or may
have reason to suspect, and to give to such authorities all the aid in their
power with regard thereto ; and every such attempt, when duly proved
and estaMished by sentence of a competent tribunal, shall be punished by
the confiscation of the property so attempted to be fraudulently introduced
AaTicLB XIX.
With respect to all merchandise, efiects, and property whatsoever, im^
ported into ports of Mexico whilst in the occupation of the forces of the
United States, whether by citizens of either republic, or by citizens orsub>
jects of any neutral nation, the following rules shall be observed :
1. All such merchandise, efiects, and property, if imported previously
to the restoration of the custom-houses to the Mexican authorities, as
stipulated for in the third article of this treaty, shall be Exempt from con-
fiscation, although the importation of the same bo prohibited by the Mexi-
can tariff
3. The same perfect exemption shall be enjoyed by all such merchan-
dise, efl^ts, and property, imported subsequently to the restoration of th<9
custom-houses, and previously to the sixty days fixed in the following ar-
ticle for the coming into force of the Mexican tariff at such ports respec-
tively ; the said merchandise, offsets, and property being, however, at the
time of their importation, subject to the payment of duties, as provided for
in the said following article.
3. All merchandise, efiects, and property described in the two mios
ibregoiug, shall, during their continuance at the place of importation, and
vpoa their leaving such place for the interior, be exempt from all duty,
tax, or impost of every kind, under whatsoever title or denomination^
M2 TRBATY OF PBACV.
«
Nor diall theybe.Uiero rabjeotad to 9Jky eluufe wliatMOfw 19011 the nto
thoreofl
4. All merchandMO, eflbets, and property deocribed in the fint and aao-
ond rolee, which ihall have been romoTed to any place in the interior
whilst rach place waa in the occupation of the foreea of the United Stateo,
■hall, during their continuance therem, be exempt fhm all tax upon the
fcale or consumption thereof, and from oYory kind of impost or contriba-
Uon, under whatsooTer title or denomination.
5. But if any merohandisey efl^ts, or property, described in the fint
and second, rules, shall be removed to any place not occupied at the time
by the forces of the United States, they shall, upon their introduction into
such place, or upcm their sale or consumption there, be subject to the same
duties which, under the Mexican laws, they would be required to pay in
such cases if they had been imported in time of peace, through the maii-
time custom-houses, and had there paid the duties conformably with the
Mexican tariff!
6. The owners of all merchandise, effects, or property, described in the
first and second rules, and existing in any port of Mexico, shall have the
right to reship the same, exempt from all tax, impost, or contributioD
whatever.
With respect to the metals, or other property, exported from any Mexi-
cau port whilst in the occupation of the forces of the United States, and
previously to the restoration of the custom-house at such port, no person
shall be required by the Mexican authorities, whether general or state, to
pay any tax, duty, or contribution upon any such exportation, or in any
manner to accouut for the same to the said authorities.
Aeticlx XX.
Through consideration for the interests of commerce generally, it is
agreed, that if less than sixty days should elapse between the date of the
signature of this treaty and the restoration of the custom-houses, con-
formably with the stipulation in the third article, in such case all mer-
chaudise, effects, and property whatsoever, arriving at the Mexican ports
after the restoration of the said custom-houses, and previously to tho expi-
ration of sixty days after the day of the signature of this treaty, shall be
admitted to entry ; and no other duties shall be levied thereon than the
duties established by the tariff* found in force at such custom-houses at the
time of the restoration of the same. And to all such merchandise, effects,
and property, the rules established by the preceding article shall apply.
Article XXI.
If unhappily any disagreement should hereafter arise between the gov*
anmientB of the two republics, whether with respdet to the inteipretatkio
\A
TREATY OF PEACE. 343
cf any ttipalaUon in thk treaty, or with respect to any other paitienlar
ooneeming the political or commercial relations of the two nations, the
■aid goremments, in the name of those nations, do promise to each other
HkBi they will endeavor, in the most sincere and earnest manner, to settle
the differences so arising, and to preserve the state of peace and friendship
in which the two countries are now placing themselves ; using, for this
end, mutual representations and paci6c negotiations. And if, by these
means, they should not be enabled to come to an agreement, a resort
Aall not, on this account, be had to reprisals, aggression, or hostility of
any kind, by the one republic against the other, until the government of
that which deems itself aggrieved shall have maturely considered, in the
spirit o[ peace and good neighborship, whether it would not be better thai
such difference should be setUed by the arbitration of commissionerB ap-
pointed on each side, or by that of a friendly nation. And should such
couise be proposed by either party, it shall be acceded to by the other, un-
less deemed by it altogether incompatible with the nature of the diflSsrencOt
or the circumstances of the case. /
AaTicLB XXIL
If (which is not to be expected, and which God forbid !) war shall un-
happily break out between the two republics, they do now, with a view to
such calamity, solemnly pledge themselves to each other and to the woiid*
to observe the followfng rules : absolutely, wherci the nature of the subjeoi
permits, and as closely as possible in all cases where such absolute' ob-
servance shall be impossible.
1. The merchants of either republic then residing in the other, shall be
allowed to remain twelve months, (for those dwelling in the interior,) and
dz months (for those dwelling at the seaports) to collect their debts and
settle their affairs ; during which periods they shall enjoy the same protec-
tion, and be on the same footing, in all reepects, as the citizens or subjects
of the most friendly nations ; and, at the expiration thereof, or at any
time before, they shall have full liberty to depart, carrying off all their ef-
fects without molestation or hinderance : conforming therein to the same
laws which the citizens or subjects of the most friendly nations are re-
quired to conform to. Upon the entrance of the armies of either nation
into the territories of the other, women and children, ecclesiastics, scholan
of every faculty, cultivators of the earth, merchants, artisans, manufac-
turers, and fishermen, unarmed and inhabiting the unfortified towns, vil-
lages, or places, and in general all persons whose occupations are for the
common subsistence and benefit of mankind, shall be allowed to continue
their respective employments unmolested in their persons. Nor shall their
houses or goods be burnt or otherwise destroyed, nor their cattle taken, nor
their fields wasted, by the armed force into whose power, by the events of
844 TREATY OF PEACE.
war, they may happen to fidl ; bat if the aecewity aiiM to take any
from them for the nee of each armed ibroe, the Mune diall be paid tot at
an equitable price. All chorohea, hoqiitala, Aehoola, oollegea, libmiaib
and other eatabliahment^ fat charitable and benefioent porpoiea, idiaU be
raepectedy and all pemna connected with the aame protected in the die-
charge of their dntiea, and the pamit of their ▼ocationa,
2. In (»der that the fate of prieonen of war may be aUeriated, all
such practicea ai thooe of eending them into divtant, inclement, or on*
whdeaome dbtricta, or crowding them into cloee and nozioaf placea, ahall
be ftodioudy aYoided. They shall not be confined in dungeons, prison-
ships, or priaona ; nor be put in irons, or bound, or eCherwiae restrained in
the use id their limbs. The officers shall e^joy liberty on their paroleB,
within convenient districta, and have comfortable quartan ; and the com-
mon soldieiB Aall be disposed in cantonments, open and eztenstYe enough
for air and exercise, and lodged in barracks as roomy and good aa are
provided by the party io whose power they are, for its own troops. But
if any officer shall break his parole by leaving the district so assigned him,
or any other prisoner shall escape from the limits of hw cantonment, after
they shall have been designated to him, such individual, officer, or other
prisoner, shall forfeit so much of the benefit of this article as provides for
his liberty on parole or in cantonment And if any officer so breaking his
parole, or any common soldier so escaping from the limits assigned him,
shall afterwards be found in arms, previously to his being regularly ex-
changed, the person so offending shall be dealt with according to the ee-
tablishcd laws of war. The officers shall be daily furnished by the party
in whose power they are, with as many rations, and of the same articles,
as are allowed, either in kind or by commutation, to officers of equal rank
in its own army ; and all others shall be daily furnished with such ration
as is allowed to a common soldier in its own service : the value of all
which supplies shall, at the cltt<e of the war, or at periods to be agreed
upon between the respective commanders, be paid by the other party, on
a mutual adjustment of accounts for the subsistence of piisoners ; and
such accounts shall not be mingled with or set off against any others, nor
the balance due on them be withheld as a compensation or reprisal for
any cause whatever, real or pretended. Each party shall be allowed to
keep a commissary of prisoners, appointed by itself, with every canton-
ment of prisoners in possession of the other ; which commissary shall see
the prisouere as often as he pleases ; shall be allowed to receive, exempt
from all duties or taxen, and to distribute whatever comforts may be sent
to them by their friends ; and shall be free to transmit his reports in open
letters to the party by whom he is employed.
And it is declared that neither the pretence that war dissolves ali
treaties, nor any other whatever, shall be considered aa annulling or sua
TREATY OF PEACE. 845
pending the solemn ooreaant 6ontaioed in this article. On the contrary,
the state of war is, precisely that for which it is proytded, and during which
its stipulations are to be as sacredly observed as the most acknowledged
obligations under the law of nature or nations.
Article XXIII.
This treaty shall be ratified by the President of the United States of
America, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate thereof ; and
by the President of the Mexican republic, with the previous approbation
of its general Congress ; and the ratification shall be exchanged in the
city of Washington, or at the seat of governin^t of Mexico, in four
months from the date of the signature hereof, or sooner if practicable.
In faith whereof, we, the respective plenipotentiaries have signed this
treaty of peace, friendship, limits, and settlement ; and have hereunto
affixed our seals respectively. Done in quintuplicate, at the city of
Gnadaloupe Hidalgo, on the second day of February, in the year of oar
Lord one thousand eight hundred, and forty-eight.
N. P. TRIST, [l. b.]
LUIS G. CUEVAS, [l. b.]
BERNARDO COUTO, [l. b.]
MIGL ATRISTAIN. [l. b.]
And whereas the said treaty, as -amended, has been duly
ratified on both parts, and the reA>pective ratifications of the
same were exchanged at Queretaro, on the thirtieth day of
May last, by Ambrose H. Sevier and Uathan Clifford, com-
missioners on the part of the government of the United States,
and by Senor Don Luis de la Rosa, Minister of Relations of
the Mexican republic on the part of that government :
Now, therefore, be it known, that I, James K. Polk, Presi-
dent of the United States of America, have caused the said
treaty to be made public, to the end that the same, and every
clause and article thereof, may be observed and fulfilled with
good faith by the United States and the citizens thereof.
In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused
the seal of the United States to be affixed.
Done at the city of Washington, this fourth day of July, one
thousand eight hundred and forty-eight, and of the Indepen-
[l. s.] dence of the United States the seventy-third.
By the President : JAMES K. POLK
James Buchanan, Secretary of State.
OF THE WAE. 347
Let us tum, for a moment, to the Results of thi
Mexican Wae. The results may be summed up in
lliree particulars, viz. ; — Uie loss of li? es, the loss of money,
and the gain of territory. Each of these may be estima-
ted with sufficient accuracy, for alt the purposes of his-
tory.
1. Or the Loss of Life. The official reiurfis of our
government show an actual loss, in the field — by buttle and
sickness — of fifteen thousand men. But this is by no
means all. There were large numbers of men mustered
into service in the interior of the United States, whose
regiments were in Mexico, and who of course must take
some time, and meet with much exposure, before they were
entered on the rolls of the active force. Many of these
were taken sick and died, without ever appearing on the
rolls of the actual force. Again, thousands of men were
discharged in Mexico, as their time expired. Of these,
many died. These facts are known and admitted by the .
officers of ^e army. It may be said then, with truth,
that the real and entire loss of life, from the invasion of
Mexico, was not less than twenty-five thousand hen.
2. Loss OF MoHEV. The treasury reports, the terms
of the treaty, and some allowance for arreara, will enable
us to come very near the true cost of the war. The war
commenced, in respect to the action of our government
for preparation and provisions, in May, 1846; and the
army was not withdrawn from Mexico till June, 184B.
The actual war, then, occupies a little more than two
years. The appropriations by law we know, the balance
in the treasury we know, and the payments under the trea^
we know. There is nothing left to conjecture, then, but
the amount which may be supposed necessary to cover ar-
348 LOSS OF LIFE.
rears. There is, however, yet another expenditure, which
is equivalent to money, although not paid in money. This
is the bounty-lands. By the act of Congress passed Feb-
ruary, 1847, each regular soldier and each volunteer, who
dies, or is discharged by wounds, or is regularly dis-
charged, is entitled to a warrant of 160 acres each of the
public -lands. The number of volunteers actually in Mex-
ico was about 56,000 and the number of soldiers enlisted
since the war about 29,000. About 85,000 men, or, if
dead, their heirs and representatives, are entitled to land-
warrants. Nearly the whole of them, we may assume,
will be taken out, and entered in the land-offices, gen
erally by those who have speculated in them. Nearly,
thirteen millions of acres will be required to meet the land-
warrants issued to the soldiers of the Mexican war ! If
sold by the United States, the value, at the minimum
price, is more than sixteen millions of dollars. The gov-
ernment has, however, fixed a commutation price of $100
in scrip for each 160 acres. Taking that as the standard
of value for land-warrants, we have eight and a half mil-
lions of dollars for that account. The arrearages of ex-
pense attending the return and disbanding of the army,
cannot be very closely estimated ; but we may safely as-
sume this item at not less than ten millions of dollars.
The balance in the treasury, as reported by the Secretary
of the Treasury, in May, 1846, was eight millions. The
cost of the war, then, stands thus : —
Balance in the Treasury, May, 1846 $8,000,000
Appropriated by Congress for the fiscal years 1846 and
1847 120,000,000
Appropriated for the Arrearages of 1847 - - . - 16,000,000
To be paid under the Mexican Treaty ..... 20,000,000
LOSS OF MONET and LAND. 349
Vftlne of Land Wammts issued ..-.--. 8^00,000
Add probable Arrearages 10,000,000
9182,600,000
Deduct from this Civil Expenses 16,000,000
Total Expense of the Mexican War $1 66,600,000
■
To find the debt, which must ultimately appear on the
books of the Treasury Department, the following deduc*
tions from the gross sum must be made.
Bakmce in the Treasury $8,000,000
Value of Land Warrants 8,600,000
Ordinary Revenue of two years ....... 66,000,000
$81,600,000
Deduct £rom the aggregate above, and there remains
debt $86,000,000
At least this sum must remain, as a permanent debt
against the United States, as a consequence of the war
with Mexico.
3. The Gaw in Territory. The gain may be sta-
ted, in general terms, as the provinces of New Mexico
and New California. But what are these ? Who knows
them ? Who can estimate them^ Taken as so much
surface of the earth, this is a vast space ; but a space ab-
solutely hid from the eyes of civilization — an untrodden,
untenanted wilderness ! The southern boundary of New
Mexico is near the 32^ of latitude, and San Diego on the
Pacific is but a little north of it. The northern boundary
of New California is in latitude 42^, being formerly the
southern boundary of the United States. The eastern
boundary of New Mexico is on the average longitude of
89^ west of Washington, and the Pacific coast of Califor-
860 TERRITORY ACQUIRED.
nia is on the average longitude of 44^, Taryiog in fact from
40^ to 47^. We have an jmmense space of country, then,
— about ten degrees north and south, and fifteen degrees
east and west. This makes 700 nailes north and south,
and 900 miles east and west. This surface makes 630,000
square miles, equal in space to fifteen large states !
But w^ll the greater part of this vast space ever be in-
habited by any but the restless hunter and the wandering
trapper ? Two hundred thousand square miles of this ter-
ritory, in New CaHfornia, has been trod by the feet of no
civilized being. No spy, or pioneer, or vagrant trapper
has ever returned to report the character and scenery of
that waste and lonely wilderness. Two hundred thousand
fiquare miles more are occupied with broken mountains
and dreary wilds. But little remains, then, for civiliza-
tion. Of that little, however, there is a future value which
may not now be counted, in the fine ports and broad coast
which look out on the noble Pacific. Beyond that live
four hundred millions of the human race. Soon their
minds, as well as their commerce and their kingdoms, will
be open to the purer and brighter light of Christianity.
We shall hurry the men and the produce of our land, in
mighty railroads to the Pacific ! Great cities we shall
have there ! Nations will come to us, and \fh shall go
to them ! And this continent will be the highway for the
multitudes of the world, and the glorious light of Chris-
tian Progress !
KBGULAR AKHY.
STATISTICS
S THB UKXICAN WAK.
T^fiUaving tabUi lioic tht number of rtgulari and telunUeri, witk
tin litl of tht coamumdiiig officerM; tAc numin- fumulltd by tmck
Slatt; tht total itrength and iattei tf thi army; tlu numbtr •/
kdltd and morlally uaanded in laek tngagaiunt ; and the namei tf
tkt offiten kilUd. * '
To exhibit the Mexican War in its completeness, we
must look at the resources employed to carry it on, as
well as the origin and results of the controversy. Below
will be found tables of the strength of the army (both reg-
ulars and Tolunteers) employed in Mexico, with the losses
it sustained.
Docriptloiuu
|1
1
j
fr
1
S
1
i
1
s
1
Orieiaat iirmy tii Tb.m, )
M.y,1846
Number of »cnilU lenl'
to Mexico fram May,
1846, to D^embor,
1847 .^
Total
^
976
388
2,I7C
3,554
33,556
27.110
Ifolt. To tfaa abova aggrogate moM b< addsd, by tha report of tb« Ad-
jntaut-geaanl, 3,493 noniita anii to ths Pnaj in Mexico, (regnlan,)
from Junary lit, 1848, to April IM, 1848. Thss, addad to the abora,
nuke 30JBO> lagnlar ntdiev aaat into HeiiM bna May, 1846, U
April, 1848.
869
TABLE OF TOLUNTBCRB.
TABLE IL
TOLUVTEEBS EMPLOTED IN MEXICO FROM MAT, 1846, TO DE-
CEMBER, 1847.
States.
Regiin'ts.
Commanding OfBeer.
Foot
Horse.
Art
TotaL
Man.
1
Col. Caleb Cushin^jr
1,047
^_
.
1,047
New York
1st
Col. J. D. Stevenson
1.179
—
~
1,179
li
2d
Col. W. B. Burnett
1,486
—
~
1,486
N. Jeraey
h
Lt. Col. J. Woodruff
434
—
-
424
PemiBylv.
1st
Col. F. M. Wynkoop
1,125
—
«
1,125
<i
2d
CoL W. B. Roberts
1,055
-—
—
1,055
«
i
—
284
—
-
284
Maryl. Sl \
Dist Col. ^
i
Lt CoL W. H. Watson
528
—
-
528
II
1
Col. S. W. Hughes '
, 666
—
-
666
(1
1 Comp.
II
—
—
136
136
Viniiiia
N. Carolina
1
Col. F. Hamtrenck
U03
^—
—
U03
1
Col. R. T. Paine
936
^—
-
936
S. Carolina
1
Col. P. M. Butler
1,054
— ~
—
1,054
Georgia
1
Col. H. R. Jackson
924
—
-
924
II
h
Lt Col. J. G. Seymour
466
—
—
466
II
h
Lt Col. J. H. Calhoun
—
657
—
657
Alabama
1
Col. J. M. Withers
931
—
—
931
II
h
Lt Col. P. H. Raiford
295
—
—
295
II
h
Capt W. H. Pratt
278
^—
—
278
II
1
Col. J. F. Coffee
945
—
945
II
h
Major J. J. Siebles
469
—
-
469
II
Comp.
Capt J. M*Gee
—
93
-
93
MiniflBippi
Ist
Col. J. Davis
942
—
—
942
II
2d
Col. B. Davis
947
—
_
947
i(
i
_M
431
-m-
—
431
Louisiana
Major L. Golley
^-.
— -
286
286
II
let
Col. J. B. Walters
698
—
—
698
II
2d
Col. T. F. Marks
912
— >
—
912
(1
3d
Col. J. H. Dokin
769
—
-
759
i(
4th
Col. H. Davis
791
—
—
791
II
5th
Col. B. Peyton
864
—
—
864
II
6th
Col. E. Featherston
829
—
829
IC
i
Lt Col. W. F. Biscoe
_
494
—
494
II
1
Col. L. G. de RuBsey
1,094
—
—
1,094
II "^
h
Col. C. Pierce
656
-
656
II
Comp.
Capt Blanchard
95
—
95
Tennessee
1
Col. J. E. Thomas
944
-
944
li
Ist
Col. W. B. Campbell
1,054
—
—
1,054
II
2d
Col. W. T. Karcoll
695
—
-
(;9.'>
11
3d
Col. B. F. Chectham
945
^^
—
945
II
4th
CoJ. R. WaterliouBo
800
—
t<00
M
5th
Col. C. R. .M-CleUand
972
—
-
972
TABLE OF VOLUNTEERS.
Table II. canliiattd.
BUM.
Bagimn*
root.
Horu-
Art
TolaL
Euitacky
tit
Col. H. Marshal
eaa
-
B3«
l8t
Col. S. Orm^y
877
877
3d
Col. W. R. M'K»
919
919
3d
1,0M
1,054
4lh
Col. J. S. Willia™
1,119
i.iia
Ohio
lit
Col. A M. Mitchel
838
2d
Col. S. R. Curtiii
8lU
810
3d
Col. S. W. Morgan
Tsa
4lh
CoL C. H. BroDfh
1,011
1,011
5lh
Col. W. Irwin
943
Wchigui
Col. T. B. W. Stockton
Bsa
688
IComp
C«pl. M. L. Gap
B4
64
Jndiui*
IM
Col. J. P. Drole
656
_
85S
ad
Col. J. Laae
653
853
3d
Col. J. H. Laua
863
869
4lh
Col. Vf. A. Uorman
919
919
Sill
Col. J. H- Lbdb
973
973
niintds
in
Col. J. J. Hardin
927
937
ad
Col. W. H. B.».lt
9oa
909
3d
Col. F. Fweniau
910
910
4th
Col. E. D. Baker
819
819
Sih
Col. E. W. a Nowby
1,031
1,U31
G(h
Col. J. Collin.
969
969
Cspt A. Dunlap
435
495
WiKoium
SConip
C«pl. W. Knowllon
l46
140
lc*>
Capt. J. ftUMorgaa
73
73
aComp
Capt. J. Porter
156
15S
MiMDDri
1st
CsLA. R-BwIoQ
687
687
Sd
Capt F. H. Holt
933
933
"^
3d
CoL JMV. Doniphan
C<d.STrice
z
986 -
845' -
986
845
U. Col. D. Willoeh
407
-
407
aComp.
Major M. L. Clark
239
939
141
141
BalUL
Lt Col. A, EutoD
507
5U7
Lt. Col. J. Bulla
1,107
1,107
Bdltal.
Lt. Col. L E, Powall
437
437
3 Camp
Lt Col. W. Gilpin
179
179
161
161
Conip.
104
104
Arkura.
1
Col. A. y«ii
800[ -
800
3 Camp.
U. Col. W. Gray
q:
1S8
JCon,^
365
266
ICorop,
Copt J. B. EDnrt
100
rioriiu
iComp;
Capt. A. J. JohDKHi
393
- -
333
T>iu
It
1,045'-
1,04S
"
3d
Col. J. C. Haja
—
534
-
534
854
NUMBER FROM THE SEVERAL STATES.
TahU 11. continued.
States.
Regiin*t8. Commanding Officer.
Foot
Horse.
An.
TotaL
Texas
3d
Col. S. T. Wood
._
718
718
IC
4th
Major C. C. Cooper
—
802
—
809
l<
5th
Col. J. C. Haya
—
870
—
870
II
6th
Lt CoL Bell
—
711
—
711
II
aConap.
Henderson
95
—
—
95
II
1
Col. A. S. Johneon
615
—
—
615
II
Battal.
—
393
— .
-.
393
II
4 Comp.
—
—
209
.-
209
«l
2 Comp.
Capt M'CulloQgh
—
168
—
168
II
IndianB.
Black Beaver
...
35
^
35
II
Battal.
Major Chevallie
—
487
—
487
Mormonfl
«
Lt Col. J. Alten
503
—
—
503
II
1 Comp.
Capt. D. C. Davis
82
—
—
8S
California
Battal.
Major J. C. Fremont
—
470
~
470
II
1 Comp.
t(
-^
—
41
41
II
11
Capt W. A. T. Maddox
47
—
—
47
Remust^d >
VolunU
Battal.
Major R. Walker
—
257
-
257
II
3 Comp.
__
342
_
342
(1
1 Comp.Capt. Me^rs
—
loy
-
1U9
Totals 1
76 Regiments and 3 Companies.
51.726
15^73'
(
mOG
67,905
Note. — This excludes a large number of volunteers who were mustered
for payment, but never in service'; but includes the Toxans called out ia
1845. ^
TABLE IIL
VOLUNTEERS FURNISHED BY EACH STATE, FROM THE MARCH TO
CORPUS CHRISTI TO TflE END OF THE WAR.
States.
Massachusetts
New York
Pennsylvania
New Jersey
Maryland and Dist. of Columbia
Virginia ,
North Carolina ,
South Carolina
Alabama
Mississippi
1,047
2,665
2,464
424
1,194
1,303
936
1,054
2,918
2,319
93
136
TotaL
1,047
2,665
2,464
424
1,330
1,303
936
1,054
3,011
2319
TOTAL STRENGTH OP THE ARMT.
355
Table III. continued.
States.
Foot.
Horae.
Artil*f.
TotaL
Georgia
Louisiana ..
Tenneseee..
Kentucky ..
Ohio
Michigan....
Indiana
Illinois
Wisconsin . .
Iowa
Missouri ....
Arkanraa....
Florida
Texas
Mormons....
Califomians.
Aggregatee.
1,390
6,698
4,466
3,962
4,694
972
4,470
5,548
146
73
2,429
265
323
1,103
585
47
51,726
657
494
944
838
425
156
3,967
1,158
5,569
470
15373
286
343
41
806
2,047
7,448
5,410
4,800
4,694
973
4470
5,973
146
229
6,739
1,423
323
6,679
585
558
67,905
TABLE IV.
TOTAL STRENGTH OF THE ARMT EMPLOYED IN MEXICO, FROM
APRIL, 1846, TO APRIL, 1848.
Description of Force.
:\
Army in Mexico,
(regulars,) May
1846
Recruits for the old I
regiments )
Recruits for the
now regiments...
Recruits sent to
Mexico after De-
cember, 1847 ...
Volunteers
Marines
Aggregates.
Foot.
Horse.
Artil»y.
Total.
«^170
•
51,726
347
408
15,373
976
806
3,554
12,551
10,145
2,493
67,905
347
54>i43
15,781
1,782
96,995
Remarks.
The ffeaeral staff is
under the head of
" Hone."
The < new regiments'
were the 3d Dra-
goons, the Voki-
geurs, and the 9th,
10th, nth, 12th,
13th, 14th, 15th,
and 16th regi-
ments of Infant^.
Note. — From the abore table are excluded 12 companies called oat in
Ohio, and mastered in *< Camp Washington," but not in actual service *
so also, a portion of Louisiana volunteers called out in 1845 ; and so also
of a few other oompanies. If these wore hioladed, the total nnmbtf
856
L088E8 OP THE ARlfT.
called oat by gorenimeiit dari]i{|r the war would exceed dies burdebd
THeUOAND.
The actual number in aenrice in Mexico exceeds eighty thoiuand. Thk
number was not called out at one time, but in succeauye periods. At the
time the war doied, the A^jutant-^neral reports, that there were
tnally more than forty thousand men in the field.
TABLE V.
TOTAL LOSS OF THB ARMT, BT REGULARS AND STATES, FROM MAT,
1846, TO JAMUART, 1848.
Description of Force.
Disch*d
from
ditab'ty.
General staff.
Engineers
Ordnance
Ist Dragoons
2d "
Mounted riflemen.
let Artillery
2d
3d
4th
Ist Infantry
2d
3d
4th
5th
6th
7th
8th
<<
tt
f<
(f
(I
«
«
Total of the old army,
3d Dragoons
9th Iu£ntry
10th "
nth "
12th "
13th
14th
15th '*
16th "
Voltigeurs
(I
«
Total of the new regunents,
Killed
in
battle
1
1
6
25
33
27
32
24
19
20
13
28
40
37
50
34
21
47
Died of
wounds, disease
458
7
9
3
10
7
8
21
74
^
1
4
5
8.
18
10
29
24
15
7
2
14
31
40
1
56
345
4
5
12
13
9
24
2r
10
Died of
13
12
14
56
91
120
154
126
121
108
133
91
145
123
149
152
95
119
Desert-
ed.
Totals.
1,822 1,598
6
5
108
112
64
123
145
148
99
74
147
91
86
74
112
81
123
85
83
88
102
50
100
85
222 J
98
92
*9 1,005
54
64
25
47
19
30
45
37
30
94
445
14
20
29
194
244
229
319
324
312
242
.•227
268
280
277
313
368
218
345
4,223
150
161
116
171
89
130
147
302
130
205
1,601
LOSSES OF THE ARI17.
Tahlt V. etnliniud.
DiKti'd
from
hBbtr
Kilted
bau(e.
'J^
Diedoi
Dewrt-
Toula.
United Stata MaiiiiM
-
7
-
5
9
31
New York...
NewJeney..
Columbia {
VirgiDi.
N.Carajina..
& Carolina..
" Georna
Alalima
Ktal^ '.'.'.
Ohio
33
m
3
312
148
135
62
104
346
2S0
513
215
533
434
4
550
489
3
9
114
68
4
S43
9
39
8
30
3
"m
s
45
78
18
47
89
~9
19
I
39
7
"is
10
3
26
4
1
6
4
11
4
3
3
30
77
U
m
54
6G
173
234
117
103
358
301
199
176
318
3
318
362
9
3
229
153
8
118
7
"35
105
363
51
163
176
38
19
41
60
37
43
703
48
133
435
77
105
68
I3
97
3
115
1
11
168
604
65
631
3el9
339
253
435
435
350
871
1,135
1,278
023
1,095
S4
920
Michigan ...
Ixttaa.
13
•• Mlmmri
« AAaniai
Florida
419
369
16
Mormon.......
CalifotDiuw.;
8
^69
5.433
508
74
458
92
79
345
3.160-
1.005
1,822
1^
13.083
1.601
4.233
Toutofiiewreffinieati....
ASB^ift-
5,433
1,040
516
5,987
4,925
17,906
Hole — It will bs abssrved thii raluni of I0M iaclud«a oolj that between
the let of Jane, 1846, and the IrtofJuiaDry, 1849. r>rt]> tboimnd men
remained in aervice, chiefly iu Mexico, tram the lit of Janaaiy, 1848, till
the IM of July, I&IS. In Ihia time, the boapilali were full of the aick,
many of whooi died. It ia entirely within boundi to aay, that on»-roufth
aa many were kit jn that period ai had been pmrioady. Thii, added to
858 LOSSES OF THE ARlCf.
the aboFo, would make twenty-two thouaaiid fi?e hundred. Of those £•-
diaiged for diaahility, three-fourthe died before they reached home. Biany
of theee died in bo^tala. Of the deserten many died, and numy were
found in the Mexican service. The official muster-rolls, as returned by
the Adjutant-general, show also another fact, ?iz. : that the difierenee be-
tween the number of yolunteeis mustered into serrice and those mustered
out, or on the rolls at the last return, was more than sixteen thousand.
But the number accounted for above is only twelve thousand. Four thou-
sand others must have disappeared in some way. About twelve hundred
are accounted for, as discharged by order ; but three thousand have gone
without being heard of. The greatest number of them have unquestion-
ably died in unknown ways.
The summary of these statements, then, may thus be made : —
Killed in battle, or died of wounds prior to January 1st, 1848 1,556
Died of disease 5,987
Disabled aud discharged 5,432
Deserted , 4,925
Disappeared, unaccounted for 3,000
Died, discharged, deserted, &«., from January to July, 1848 4,500
25,400
or this number, supposed to be dead 20,000
It is presumed that this is less than the real number ; but it is the only
result to which we cau arrive by tlio oflicial returns.
The proportion of loss among the difiereut arms of service — the old and
new legulars and volunteers — is an interesting object of inquiry. The
reader, by runuiug his eye over the columns, will readily ascertain any
fact of this sort he may wish to know. The general result is, tliat much
the heaviest proportional loss fell on the regulars of the old regiments.
One great reason of this is, that they were more continually and actively
employed, in the whole series of engagements in Mexico, than any other
class of troops.
\
KILLED. ETC. IN EACH ENGAGEMENT.
359
TABLE VL
THE NUMBER OF KILLED AND MORTALLY WOUNDED IN EACH EN-
GAGEMENT DURING THE WAR, IN THE REGIMENTS OF REGULARS.
Engagements.
Affair of Captaiu Thornton, on
the left bank of the Rio Grande
—April 25, 1846
Battle of Palo Alto— May 8, 1846
Battle of Resaca de la Palma, 1
Texas— May 9, 1846 J
Battle of Monterey, Mexico— )
September 21-23, 1846 S
Siege of Fort Brown, opposite i
Matamoras — from May 4 to 9» >
1846 >
Afiiiir of San Pasqual, California i
— December 6, 1846 (
Affair of General Kearny, at San ^
Gabriel, California— ^January >
8-9,1847 )
Affair of Col. Price at Puebia de
Taos, Now Mexico— Febru-
ary 4, 1847
Affair of CoL M'Intosh— June 6, \
1847 $
Battle of Buena Vista — Febru- \
ary 22-23, 1847 J
Siege of Vera Cruz — March \
9-28, 1847 $
Battle of Cerro Gordo— April 18- )
19; 1847 \
Battles of Coutreros and Chum- \
busco— August 19-20, 1847.. \
Battle of Molino del Rey, Sep- \
tember 8, 1847 J
Battles of Chapultepec and city {
of Mexico— Sept 12-14, 1847 5
Killed.
Died of wounds.
Officers.
Men.
Officers.
Men.
1
10
—
—
5
2
8
3
30
—
11
8
47
1
8
—
1
1
—
3
14
1
—
—
1
5
6
5
—
2
3
5
—
3
1
39
2
19
10
96
3
28
9
115
5
62
7
97
1
39
Totsi.
— — 11
15
44
64
2
17
1
— — 5
6
8
10
61
137
191
144
aeo
KIXXXD. BTC. IN BACH BNOAOBMBNT.
TahU VI MafMScd.
Engagements.
KOled.
Diedofwoonds.
TolaL
Offioert.
Men.
OiBcert.
Men.
Major Lally'i command — An- \
gust, 1847 $
Siege of Puebla— Sept and Oct, )
1847 \
Battle of Huamantia— October )
19, 1847 « J
Galama. Mexico « ^
1
1
3
9
3
13
1
—
10
3
13
1
Incidental
3
Totals
50
500 i 16
180
746
•WV j
Note on the preceding Tables. — The above tables are deduced and
compiled from more detailed and extended tables, prepared by the Adjn-
tant-general. Thoy are liable to one objection, — a defect which it is im-
possible wholly to correct, — viz. : that thoy are not complete to the end of
the war, and do uot correspond entirely to the actual condition of the sev-
eral regimciitH on their return to the United States. There is one descrip-
tion of loss which will never appear in the returns of the army, viz. : the
loss of men to and from their regiments, either before they had joined, or
after they had been mustered out of service. This loss is a very large one.
Subject, however, to this correction, the tables here given present a very
fair view of the loss of the several corps while actually in Mexico.
It will be seen that Table VI. does not altogether correspond with the
results in Table V. The discrepancy is chiefly found under the head of
** Died of wouuds." The reason is very obvious. The table of loss in
each battle is taken by the Adjutant-general from the reports of that
battle ; but the aggregate results are taken from the muster-rdls subse-
quently. In the interval, many of those who were wounded died of their
wounds, so that the last return is much uyreased.
V
LIST OF OFFICERS KILLED.
861
TABLE VIL
iJST OF THE OFFICERS, KILLED OR DIED OF WOUNDS, IN THE WAR
WITH MEXICO, WITH THEIR CORPS AND RANK.
Names.
Tnieman CroM»
G. T. Mason,
Jacob Brown,
Samuel Ringgold,
John Page,
J. E. Blake,
Z. M. P. Inge,
R. E. Cochrane,
T. Ij.Chadbourue,
W. H. Wataon,
Lewis N. Morris,
P. N. Barbour,
G. P. Field.
D. S. Irwin,
R. Hazlitt,
C. Hoskins,
H. M'Kavett,
J. S. Woods,
W.G. Williams,
J. C. Terrett,
R. Dil worth,
W. B. Allen,
S. M. Putnam,
M. Hett,
A. R. Johnston,
R. D. Moore,
T. C. Hammond,
J. H. K. BurgTi'in,
Von Valkenburg,
Battle.
Murdered,
April 10,
1846.
Thornton's
affair.
Fort
Brown,
May 6th.
Palo .\llo,
«th May,
1846.
i<
9th May,1846
SResacade t
la Palma. )
«
!
Monterey,
21-23 Sept.
Monterey.
«<
<(
(<
((
«
«
«
«
«
San Pas-
qual, Dec
6th, 1846,
:l
Corps.
«
Pueblo de
Taos, 7th
Fob. 1846
«<
Amis. Quar-
termaster-
general.
2d Dragoons.
7 th Infantry.
Ist Artillery.
4th Infantry.
Top. Engiu.
2d Dragoons.
4th Infantry.
it
Maryland )
Volunteers. }
3d Infantry.
«
it
<(
4th "
8th «
2d "
Top. Engin.
Ist Infantry.
((
Tenn. Volun.
i(
Ohio Volun.
1st Dragoons.
%
i<
Ma Volun.
Rank.
Colonel.
Lieut.
Major.
«
Captain.
Lieut
Lt Col.
Captain.
Major.
Captain.
Lieut.
((
((
Captain.
Lieut
Captain.
Lieut
Captain.
Lieut.
<(
Captain.
«
Lieut.
Captain.
I Lieat
Remarks.
Murdered by a
Mexican par-
ty command-
ed by Falcon.
At a Mexican
rancho.
Killed by m
bomb-shell at
Fort Brown.
Conmiaiider of
the Flying
Artillery.
Accid. killed
In May's
charge.
In California.
«
«
New Mezioo.
M
"i.
862
LIST OF OFFICERS KILLED.
Table VIL continued.
Namei.
BatUe.
Corps.
Rank.
Remarks.
G«orge Lincoln,
Buena Vista.
Staff.
Captain.
A. AdjutaDt-
generaL
J. J. Hardin,
i Buena Vis-
{ ta, 22d Feb.
i 1847.
1st Illinois )
VoluuteoFB. \
Colonel
J. W. Zabriskie,
«
(t
Captain.
•
B. R. Houghton,
«
((
Ist Lieut
— Woodward,
«i
2d III. Volun.
Captain.
A. B. Roundtreo,
«
<i
Lieut
— Fletcher,
«
«
«
— FergUBOD,
«
((
<(
— Robbins,
K
((
«
T. Kelley,
<(
«(
«
— Steel,
«
<(
«
— Burtiedon,
((
«
<(
— Athertou,
((
(<
«
— Price,
If
«
«
W. R. M*Kee,
«
2d Ky. Volun.
Colonel.
Henry Clay, jr.,
«
««
Lt Col.
W. T. WilleH,
({
((
Captain.
Archibald Yell,
«
Ark. Volun.
Colonel.
A. R. Porter,
(f
(4
Captain.
E. M. Vaujrhn,
({
Ist Ky. Volun.
Adjutant
Francis M'Nulty,
((
Miw. Rifles, j 2d Lieut
R. L. Moore,
«
({
Ist Lieut.
— Campbell,
<(
Texas Volun.
i ««
— Leonard,
If
((
2d Lieut
T. B. Kinder,
«
J 2d Reg. )
I la. Volun.
Captain.
W. Walker,
((
((
<<
Tho«. C. Parr,
((
((
2d Lieut
V
J. Taggart,
«
3d la. Volun.
Captain.
John R. Vinton,
" Siege of '\
Vera Cruz 1
' Mar. 22, f
. 1^7. J
3d Artillery.
«
City of Vera
Cruz, Mexi-
co.
William Alburtis,
do. March 11.
2d Infantry.
«
G. M. Cowordcn,
C Cerro Gordo
\ 18th April,
( 1847.
4th Illinois >
Volunteers. \
Dent
F. B. Nelson,
(«
2d Tenn. Vol.
M
C. C. Gill,
<<
<(
«
Thomas Ewcll,
((
Rifles.
<(
Wm. Yearwood,
«
1st Tenn. Vol.
K
Richard Murphy,
<(
4th III. Vol.
«
Thomas Davis, |
i«
Rifles.
M
LIST OF OFFICERS KILLED.
363
Table VJL continued.
Names.
E. A. Capron,
M. J. Burke, ^
S. Hoffman,
JaB. W. Anderson,
Thomas Easley,
Chas. G. Henson,
Seth B. Thornton,
J. P. Johnstone,
F. D. Mills.
John B.Goodman,
August Quarles,
W. a Goodloe,
J. F. Irons,
Fierce M. Butler,
David Adams,
W. R, WUliams,
J. P. Dickinson,
E. Chandler,
Martin Scott,
Moees E. Merrill
W. T. Burwell,
G. W. Ayres,
J. F. Farry,
W. Armstrong,
M. L. Shackelford
J. S. M*Intoeh,
W. Roberts,
E. Kirby Smith,
K. F. Ernst,
J. G. Burbank,
Charles F. Morris,!
Wni. M. Graham,
R..H. L. Johnston,
A. P. Rodgers,
J. P. Smith,
S. Smith,
Levi Gautt,
S. IL Drum,
C. Benjamin,
T. Ransom,
L. Twiggi,
Battle.
Churubus.
Aug. 20,
1847.
SContreras >
I9th Aug. S
City gate.
((
Churubusca
«
tt
«(
<i
II
Mol. del Rey.
«
(I
<«
11
<i
i<
i«
II
<i
((
«
<i
K
II
( Chapulte-
< pec, 13th
( Sept
II
II
II
CI
II
II
M
Corps.
Rank.
Ist Artillery.
II
II
2d Ilifantry.
7th
II
It
2d DragoouB.
1st Artillery.
15th Infantry.
II
II
II
Ist Artillery.
S. C. Volun.
II
it
it
N. Y. Volun.
5th Infantry.
(I
II
3d Artillery.
i<
2d Artillery.
II
Staff
II
5th Infantry.
6th "
8lh "
II
11th •*
4th
II
II
II
5th
4th "
7th "
4th, Artillery.
i<
9th Infantry.
^Marine!.
Captain.
11
Deut
Captain.
Lieut
Captain.
i<
Lieut
Major.
Lieut
Captain.
Lieut
II
Colonel.
Lieut
If
LtCoL
Lieut
Lt Col.
Captain.
Lieut
Captain.
Lieut
II
<i
Colonel.
Ass. Surg.
Captain.
Deut
II
II
LtCoL
Lieut
II
«
i<
«
Captain.
Lieut
CoIoneL
Major.
Rftmarkfi
Died at Vera
Cruz.
864
LI8T OF OFFICERS KILLED.
Table VIL continued.
Names.
Battle.
Corps.
Rank.
Remaiki.
A. Van Olinda,
Chapultepec
N. Y. Volun.
Captain.
J. Willee,
City gate.
S. C. Volun.
Lieut
J. B. Moragnoi
((
((
If
Charles Baxter,
Chapultepec.
N. Y. Volon.
LtCoL
E. H. Pearson,
«
((
Captain.
S. H. Walker,
C Huamantla,
< October,
i 1847.
i National )
Mounted )
Rifles. \
i«
^
G. D. Twiggs,
} bridge, 12 }
( Aug.1847 )
Staff.
Lieut
R Ridgely,
Monterey.
3d Artillery.
Captain.
Killed by a
fall from his
horse.
G.Stevens,
Fort Brown.
2d Dragoons.
Lieut
Drowned in
crossing the
river from
Dinan.
Alex. J. Swift,
New Orleans.
Engineers.
Captain.
Taken sick at
Vera Cruz.
J. A. Richey,
Villa Garra.
5th Infantry.
Lieut. Murdered.
1
Stevens T.Mason,
Cerro Gordo.
J Mounted \
I Rifles. \
Captain.
Died of w*nds.
riS miles'
Theo'c H. Porter,
from Ma-
< tamoras, >
4th Infantry.
Lieut
Killed in ae-
tion.
Apr. 19.
1
I 1846. .
Chs. B. Daniels,
Mol. del Roy.
2d Artillery.
((
Died of w'nd&
Jno. D. Bacon,
Churubusco.
i Puss Gu- )
6th Infantry.
«
« «(
Hender. Ridgely,
< luxru, 24 }
( Nov.1847 S
4th Infantry.
(«
ErastusB. Strong,
Mol. del Rey.
L PasoOve- )
5th Infantry.
<(
Jas. H. Calwell,
^ jas, Aug. >
( 10, 1847. S
( La Iloya, J
Voltigeuis.
Captain.
<( «4
EM win Guthrie,
\ June 20, }
( 1847. )
i National j
15th Infantry.
<(
« «<
J. W. Winder,
\ bridge, 13 }
( Aug.1847 )
Voltigeurs.
Deut.
<( •<
Whit B. Brooks,
Churubusco.
12th Infantry.
«
« M
\A
LIST OF OFFICERS KILLED.
365
15^ officers killed ; of whom there were
Regulars 79
Volunteers 4<J
The Rank and Corps of the officers — thus killed in the Army of Mex-
ico — ^may be thus stated : —
Colonels 7
Lieut. Colonels
Majors 5
Captains t7
Suoaltems 65
Staff officers ft— 1S5
Staff 5
Engineers 3
Ist Artillery.
Sd
Sd "
4th "
Ist Infantry .
Sd
3d
4th
5th
0th
7th
^
4(
tt
t(
l«
t(
6
3
4
3
3
4
5
6
7
8
3
3
9th Infantry I Marines.
10th •*
11th «• 3
13th " 1
13th "
14th "
15th '• 5
16th *'
1st Dragoons ••• 4
3d ♦• 3
3d **
Riflemen 4
YoUigeurs 8
Maryland Volunteers
Tennessee
Ohio
Missouri
Illinois
Kentucky
Arkansas
Mississippi
Texas
Indiana
S. Carolina
Kew York
I*
(<
ii
u
t«
<(
tl
t(
it
«l
It
1
1
9
I
1
IS
4
S
t
8
4
4
The total number of officera killed and wounded during the war,
about 450. Of this number, more than half were of the regular army,
and more than half were graduates of the U. S. Military Academy at
West Point To this institution, more than to any state, or any arm of
the service, or any mere exertion of valor, is the country indebted for the
success and brilliant achievements of the war. The modern art of war is
a science requiring the union of many arts to its perfection. It is the mind
of an army, not its physical force only, which wins its vi<^tories and makes
ha conquests. Thi^ mind is developed in its officers. These must be ao-
oomplished men, equipped in the knowledge of many things, and disci-
plined by much study. This work of high education is performed at West
Point ; and no school of military science in the world, at the present p)»-
riod, is equal to it. We cannot dose this brief history of the most brilliant
career of the army, without pointing to the Military Academy as the great
source of military instruction, and to the victories of the Mexican War m
monoments to its glory and its excellence.
\
DAVIES' SYSTEM OP MATHEMATICS.
DESIGNED FOR SCHOOLS, ACADEMIES, AKD COLLEGES.
BT CHARLES DATIES, LLD.
PUBLISHED BY'A. S. BARNES & CO..
51 JOHN-STREET, NEW YORK.
ELEMENTARY COURSK
UAVIES' FROCARY TABLE BOOK
DAVIES* FIRST LESSONS IN ARITHMBTIO
DAVIES* 80H00L ARITHMETIO New EdUiom,
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TO THE FRIENDS OF EDUCATION.
V The publishers of this series of mathematical works by Professoi
Charles Dayies, beg leave respectfully to ask of teachers and the
friends of education a careful examination of these works. It is
not their intention to commend, particularly, this Course of Math-
ematics to public favor ; and especially, it is not their design to
disparage other works on the same subjects. They wish simply
to explain the leading features of this system of Text- Books — ^the
place which each is intended to fill in a system of education — the
general connection of the books with each other — and some of the
advantages which result from the study ofa uniform series of math-
ematical works.
It may, perhaps, not be out of place, first, to remark, that the
author of this series, after graduating at the Military Academy,
entered upon the duties of a permanent instructor in that institution
in the year 1816, and was employed for the twenty following years
in the departments of scientific instruction. At the expiration of
that perio'' he visited Europe, and had a full opportunity of com-
paring the systems of scientific instruction, both in France and
England, with that which had been previously adopted at the Mih-
tary Academy.
This series, combining all that is most valuable in the various
methods of European instruction, improved and matured by the
suggestions of more than thirty years^ experience, now forms the
only complete consecutive course of Mathematics. Its methods,
harmonizinLT as the works of one mind, carry the student onward
by the same anah)gics and the samelawsof association, and are cal-
culated to impart a comprehensive knowledge of the science, com-
bining clearness in the several branches, and unity and proportioo
in the whole. Being the system so long in use at West Point, and
through which so many men, eminent for their scientific attain-
ments, have passed, it may be justly regarded as our National
System of Mathematics. Scholars and students who have pur-
sued this course, will everywhere stand on the highest level with
reference to the estimates whiqh themselves and others will form
of this part of their education.
The series is divided into three parts, viz. : First — Arithmkti-
oal Course FOR Schools. Second — Academical Course. TIimij
•— Colleoiatf Ooi'rre
(3)
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I
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